Donald Garnet Fletcher

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Garnet Fletcher, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Don passed peacefully at Spencer House surrounded by family on September 5, 2026. He was 83.

Don was born on December 8, 1942, in Orillia, Ontario, to the late Viola Fletcher.

Married for 33 years to the love of his life, Don and his late wife Jackie were the proud parents of Rae and David (McKenzie), and the proud grandparents of Sothea, Attley, Elianna, and Karsyn. They will always cherish the memories of their Papa Don.

He was the dear brother of the late Archie Fletcher, Bob Fletcher (Betty), the late Barry Fletcher (Barb), and Sharon Penny (Chuck). He will also be lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law, Penny Tansley.

Don spent more than 30 years working at Otaco Seating in Orillia,and was a member of the United Steelworkers. His working life was an important part of who he was, and he took pride in his work and in the people he worked alongside.

Quiet by nature, Don had a rough exterior but inside was thoughtful, caring, and loving. The gentle side of Don shone bright with the love for his family. He had a wonderful sense of humour and a great laugh that could make the people around him smile. He enjoyed the simple things in life and had plenty of opinions-especially when it came to sports, sandwiches, and home repairs. If it couldn’t be repaired with duct tape, a hammer, and a pair of vice grips, it probably wasn’t worth fixing.

To his siblings, he was fun, clever, and mischievous. An afternoon of golf earned him the name Dink, a family nickname that stayed with him throughout his life. And let’s not forget his Jean Chrétien impersonation.

Above all, Don was a familiar and steady presence in the lives of the people who loved him. He will be remembered for his humour, his laugh, his love of sports, his practical nature, and all the little things that made him uniquely Don.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and all who knew him. Dad, we will miss you deeply and remember you forever.

The family would like to thank Spencer House for their kindness and dedication to Don’s well-being. He was very fond of Shawna, Cody, and the team on Spruce Lane, especially “buff mama” Katana, who snuck him egg salad sandwiches and Mama Burgers.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Details on the date and location will be shared when arrangements have been finalized and Tim Hortons has been ordered.

Donations may be made in Don’s memory through Mundell Funeral Home to the Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation or the OSPCA.