Donald “Donnie” Ballantyne quietly passed on April 16 at 4:20 p. m. at London University Hospital. He was 78 years old.
He was the proud father of Trevor (Cathy) from Newmarket, grandfather to Kenzie (Matt), Maddie, and great-grandfather to Ezra and Elowyn (Winnie).
He also leaves behind his son Chad (Sandra) in Barrie, grandfather to Connory (Maxence) in Montreal, Caedda in Halifax, and Keelan (Taylor) in Barrie.
His son Kaj (Libby) from Huntsville remembers him as Papa Bear to Mc Kinley, Elianna, and Chloe.
Sarah from Barrie is also one of his children.
Donnie was a dear brother to David Ballantyne (Sharon) of Guelph and Doug Ballantyne (Marina) of Hamilton.
Known by many as “Bear,” “Dad,” “Grampa Bear,” or just “Papa,” Donnie lived a life full of faith and service. Growing up with a pastor for a father influenced him deeply. Before starting his ministry work that lasted nearly four decades, he served in the Canadian Navy. He trained at New Brunswick Bible Institute (NBBI), then went on to become a close friend, counselor, camp pastor/director, and church leader across New Brunswick and Ontario.
People will remember him for how he believed in others’ potential and invested time into helping it grow. His reach wasn’t limited to family – countless folks felt his support through mentorship and encouragement. He had a great sense of humor too; his stories and playful side brought smiles alongside wise advice wherever he went.
Donnie carried on a long line of ministry work started by his dad Archie “Poppy” Ballantyne who helped get Camp Widjiitiwin off the ground years ago. That same spirit lives on through Donnie’s kids and grandkids many of whom are involved in ministry today.
A Celebration of Life will take place May 24 from 3:00 to 6:00 p. m. at Calvary Baptist Church located at 454 Arkell Road, Puslinch (Guelph). There will be remarks and shared memories starting around 4:00 p. m.
If you want to come please RSVP through this Facebook event:
https://www. facebook. com/share/1HThs Cw D4G/
You can also RSVP by emailing: houseoftheballantynes@gmail. com
The family welcomes everyone who knew Donnie to join them for this gathering.
Instead of flowers, they’d appreciate hearing your stories or seeing photos about Donnie’s life so they can put together a memory book honoring him-someone who truly lived with purpose and faithfulness.
