Funeral Information For Charles Bradley Donner Retired TFS (Former L-752 NYFD)
Charles Bradley Donner – 9 August 1951 – 1 January 2021
It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing on Friday, January 1, 2021, of Charles Bradley “Brad” Donner after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 69. Brad was born on August 9, 1951 in Midland, Ontario to Joyce Thomson and Len Donner. He spent his career as a Toronto Firefighter, previously North York Fire. Brad started with North York Fire on Oct.15,1973, and Retired from TFS on July 06, 2002 after 29 yrs. He enjoyed 19yrs of Retirement.
Brad married Darlene Burns (Debbie) on September 22, 1973, and raised two children, Shawna and Brett. Brad had a passion for music. He enjoyed his time as a DJ for CHOO radio in his earlier years and continued his love of playing the guitar/banjo by performing regularly throughout his life. He was a man who had many hobbies and was always ready to try something new. From obtaining his pilot’s license, to fishing and hunting, to working on his model railroad, Brad was always puttering with something.
After his retirement from the Toronto Fire Department, Brad and Debbie purchased a cottage where they spent their summers. This was Brad’s favorite place, where he could relax and spend time with his grandkids and tractor. Brad was preceded in death by his father, Len, and his mother, Joyce. He is survived by his loving wife Debbie, his two amazing children, Shawna Gavas (Brian) and Brett, his grandchildren, Simon, Gavin, Shiloh, Levi and Grayson and brother Bart (Nora) Arlow, of Hamburg, New York.
Although we will miss Brad’s presence deeply, we feel blessed to have had this amazingly talented and loving man brighten and enlighten us throughout our lives. As per Brad’s wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread at a later date. Due to COVID precautions, no formal funeral services are planned.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Oshawa Funeral Home. If desired, donations may be made to The Lakeridge Health Oshawa Foundation in Brads’s honour or you can donate blood in Brad’s honour with the Canadian Blood Services.
Deepest condolences go out to his family and friends from all our Fire Fighter Retiree Groups.
In Solidarity, Retired Toronto Fire Fighters Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888