Donald Andrew Theriault

May 13, 1934 – January 12, 2026

Annapolis Royal

Ol’ Donnie’s life came to its natural close on January 12, 2026, at the incredible age of 91. He met that special moment feeling complete, ready, and at peace, as evidenced by his genuinely curious question in recent weeks, “How am I still alive?” Of course, we all know the answer to that question: It was the unparalleled care of dear Barbara that kept him going all these years.

Donald was a loving and devoted man. He shared 68 years of marriage with wife, Barbara, the great love of his life and his constant companion. Their story began 69 years ago, when Barb and a high school friend hitchhiked from Digby to Annapolis Royal to attend a Legion dance. That night, Donald not only drove them safely home, but won Barb’s heart forever. From that first dance to his very last day, the two never left each other’s side.

Donald’s love for family often showed itself through his signature razzing and a good dose of advice—a style that masked a caring and generous heart. His children will forever cherish small but powerful memories: Dad coming home on payday with a pop and chocolate bar for each kid as a little treat, time spent at the camp, or daytrips to Risser’s Beach.

Donald is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife Barbara (Wilson); daughter Cathy Chalmers; son Wayne; daughters-in-law Shelley, Ellie, and Karen; grandchildren Mitchell, Tara, Courtney, Ben, Carter, Logan, and Anna; great-grandchildren Haley, Hayden, Daneka, Hunter, and Lincoln; sister Mary Gilbert; nieces Carolyn, Marilyn, and Cynthia; sister-in-law Margaret “Tuddy”; and many cousins, great-nephews, and great-nieces. A special shoutout as well to Donald and Barb’s dear friend Arlene, and dog Mya, whose visits always brought him joy.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, Leah and Melbourne; brother Richard; and more recently beloved sons Douglas and Allan, whom he carried with him always. It brings happiness to all of us to know that the three of them are no doubt enjoying this rekindled opportunity to catch up over some fishing.

With a memory sharp as a whip, Donald always had a story to tell: witnessing a WWII bomber crash over the marsh; being hired by the provincial government at 26 years old to dive down and place dynamite to blow up the old bridge in town (without ever telling his mother, of course); proudly recounting how he once brokered a sweet deal on an old Ford Thunderbird convertible; and countless others.

Some of Donald’s happiest times were his years playing bass guitar with the old band at the Red Barn and Moschelle Hall. It’s no coincidence that in his final hours when Wayne put on an old Gordon Lightfoot CD in the hospital room, Donald’s arms started moving unconsciously, as if playing imaginary chords.

Donald earned his living through a long career with the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission, following earlier jobs of driving a school bus and working with Valley Marine, Clyde Balser, and Neville Motors. He was always good with his hands and there was nothing he didn’t know. He loved woodworking, his CB radio, four-wheeling with Barb, and he had a knack for thinking things through.

Deeply passionate about war history and especially proud of his Acadian heritage, Donald was a wealth of knowledge about Acadian culture and the community he loved. Perhaps the oldest resident of Annapolis Royal to have been born and lived there his entire life, he embodied the town’s spirit and history in a way few could.

One of Grampie’s biggest legacies is the cabin on Grand Lake. So many memories have been created there over the years for family and friends; something that will continue long into the future through the legacy he created.

Donald will be remembered for his devotion, his stories, and the quiet strength of a life lived well. His legacy continues in the many generations who loved him and in the town that will always be home.

With gratitude, the family extends heartfelt thanks to those who offered care, kindness, and friendship to Donald in his later years, and to everyone who has shared in remembering his life.

Cremation has taken place through Kaulbach Family Funeral Home in Annapolis Royal. A memorial service will be held at St. Louis Catholic Church at a later date.

Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada; Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens Society or Charity of your choice.