Donald Simon Ellitsgaard

It is with profound sadness that the family of Donald (Don) S. Ellitsgaard announces his passing in the early morning of September 17, 2025, at the age of 89.

Don will be dearly remembered by his children, Cheryl Lanzer (Gary), Christian (Colleen), and Donald; his grandchildren, Kyle (Rachelle) and Erika (Darrell); as well as numerous relatives and friends who were touched by his life.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, June, his daughter Lynn, his parents Jens and Johanna, and his sister Evelyn (Marie) Denys (Nick).

Born in Redvers, Saskatchewan, in 1935, Don entered the world with a full head of auburn hair—though it didn’t stick around for long. What did endure was his boundless energy, generous spirit, and a life rich with purpose and adventure. In 1954, he joined the Canadian Air Force, where he met the love of his life, June McQuade of Renfrew, Ontario. They married in 1956 and built a life together filled with laughter, adventure, and light-hearted bickering. Their conversations were often a chorus of talking over one another, a rhythm that became their signature.

Don began his career as a firefighter in Saskatoon in 1960, retiring as captain in 1995 after 35 years of dedicated service. He lived a joyful life, passionately involved with his farm, family, and the other love of his life: horses. Known for his jovial spirit, Don was often mistaken for Santa Claus, so much so that he embraced the role in various community events. Together with June, he spent many winters in Arizona, joyfully dancing through the desert heat and sharing in the excitement of their travels.

A beloved father, grandfather (affectionately known as Gramps), and uncle, Don's warmth and kindness will continue to resonate within his family and with all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the stories shared around kitchen tables, the laughter echoing through family gatherings, and the quiet strength he instilled in those he loved.

A special thank you to Leslie Altenburg, Don's niece, for being a steadfast presence with her unwavering support and guidance.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Paul’s Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their compassionate care during his final days.

A celebration of his life will be held on October 18th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Hercules Room at Saskatoon Travelodge, located at 106 Circle Dr, Saskatoon, SK. If you would like to attend, please send an email to cheryll@sasktel.net by October 11, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Burn Fund via their website (https://www.spffpaburn.ca/) or by cheque (Attn: Trevor Warren) mailed to 111 – 330 La Ronge Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 8B9.

Cherished Memories is honoured to be entrusted with the care and arrangements for Mr. Donald Ellitsgaard.