September 6, 1961- May 19, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Donald (Don) Choat, Grandfather, Father, Brother and Uncle. Don and his smile and daily compliments will be missed by those who knew his way.

Don was born on September 6, 1961, in Flin Flon, Manitoba, the youngest son of Diane and Ernest Choat.

Don spent the majority of an energetic and enthusiastic childhood growing up in Cranberry Portage, Manitoba. In 1973 Diane and Ernie moved the family to a farm in Leross, Sask. Here Don grew through his teenage years to become an outgoing and charismatic young man. During this time, he developed a love for, and exceptional skill as a mechanic. School was not Don’s thing so at an early age of 15 he started working as a mechanic in Wynyard Sask. Don continued to expand his experience working at various tractor repairs shops in Sask. In 1979 Don followed his brother to Grande Prairie, Alberta. Here Don continued to expand his mechanical skills by working in various heavy truck and tractor shops in and around the Peace Country.
Don was very outgoing and carefree during these years. Don married in 1983, and his son Christopher was born on June 14, 1984. However, Don’s carefree nature was not to be contained by marriage and after a short duration the marriage ended.

Don continued his life as a carefree mechanic until 1988. In the summer of 1988, Don was involved in a motor vehicle accident and nearly lost his life. Refusing to give up and against all odds and predictions Don pulled through, however, he suffered a debilitating brain injury. Don’s life and future changed that day.

Don’s recovery was aided by the selfless care of Diane and Ernie and even though they may have made some errors, they provided Don with a life that any institution available could not. Don lived under their care and supervision until their passing. In 2021, after a short stay in Grande Prairie hospital, Don moved into the Grande Prairie Care Center and he gladly called this his home until his passing.
Don will be remembered for his very friendly and cooperative nature, and I am sure that his compliments to the staff and other residents of the Care Center will be missed.
Don’s family would like to thank all the nurses and staff at the Grande Prairie Care Center for their care and compassion that made Don’s life enjoyable, and know that he considered this his home and all of you as part of his family.

Don is survived by his son Christopher (Mellissa), grandson Mylo and granddaughter Raven, brother Dennis (Michelle), nephew Kyle (Nicole) great niece Summer and nephew Cody.

A Memorial Service for Don will ne held a later date. More information to come.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bcfh.ca

• Date : 2026-05-19
• Location : Grande Prairie, AB

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