It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald George “Don” Strachan of Kirkland Lake, Ontario. Don passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, at the age of 89. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, Canadian Army veteran, and businessman.
Don is survived by his wife of over 64 years, Pauline Strachan (née Leduc), of Kirkland Lake; his four children David (Suzanne), Michelle (Rod), Michael (Michele), and Susan (Greig); and his cherished grandchildren, Kieran, Coleman, Alexandra, and Jack. Don is also survived by his siblings, Michael, Jackie, George, Judy, Steven, Brian, and John.
Don was born in Toronto on May 25, 1935, to John Gibb “Jack” Strachan and Edna Rita Strachan (née Duggan). He left school in 1950 and began working at General Steel Wares in Toronto before joining the Canadian Army in July 1953. He proudly served as a paratrooper with the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Germany and Calgary. After his honourable discharge in 1956, Don returned to Toronto and followed in the footsteps of his father, brothers, and uncles by working for Coca-Cola.
Later that year, Don moved to Elliot Lake, where he briefly worked underground at Algoma-Quirke before switching to a job servicing vending machines — a move that launched his lifelong career in the food services industry.
In 1960, Don married Pauline, and the couple settled in Toronto, where their children David, Michelle, and Michael were born. In 1968, Don began servicing vending machines at theatres in Kirkland Lake and soon proposed relocating there. Pauline, who had grown up in Ramore and Kirkland Lake, was thrilled to return north.
In January 1969, Don and Pauline opened the cafeteria at the Old Arena on Government Road. In 1979, they continued their arena food services at the new Joe Mavrinac Community Complex. Their fourth child, Susan, was born in 1969, and in 1970, Donald Strachan Limited was officially founded, marking the beginning of a legendary local business.
In 1972, Don secured the vending machine contract at KLCVI, which quickly expanded to include sandwiches and hot meal services. The success led to the installation of a full kitchen and the start of full-scale meal preparation. The following year, Don’s services reached Culver Park in Swastika and the Civic Ball Park. In 1975, he was awarded the food service contract for Northern College, launching a thriving business that catered countless weddings, funerals, graduations, and Christmas parties that continued for decades. He was well known for his prime rib dinners.
Don and Pauline retired from the food industry in 2016, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of community service and entrepreneurship.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff of Extendicare Kirkland Lake and the Kirkland Lake Hospital for their care and compassion.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the late summer of 2025 at the French Family Funeral Home in Kirkland Lake, followed by a reception at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 87. The exact date and time will be announced later. Invitations will be shared via Facebook and email.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Ontario or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 87.
Condolences on your loss, Don was a lovely man ! I first met him at KLCVI ,always a smile & good natured . Attended many events over the years where he was working . Fast forward he was wonderful with our family when he worked his magic at our daughter& son in law’s wedding ! God SpeedDon
What can anybody say about Don...OMG what a character and a Legacy he lives behind. Condolences to the Family and all his Friends he made in his Lifetime. So sorry for Family's Loss. Will always remember him by his Greetings.."Have you been away lately?".. RIP my Friend of many YEARS.
Condolences from our family to yours.
Don was a terrific guy. He always had a moment to chat and a funny story to share. Don and Pauline were a part of many of our childhood memories and our growing up. From the hockey rink, Culver Park, and seeing them at school every day. Terrific folks and terrific family. I hope you find comfort in the many fond memories we all have of Don and his fun loving ways.
Take care.
Such a beautiful obituary honouring Don- or as we all called him Donny. Legendary catering duo with Polly. Great memories made from weddings, Sunday breakfasts, and special events. When we had to plan a celebration of life for our Dad there was no question , we would ask Donny and Polly to prepare their famous prime rib dinner. He loved to talk about the kids. Always a smile and ask " How's it going buddy?" RIP Donny.
So sorry
Deepest condolences
Such a nice man and great cook
Todd and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of Donny.
I had a wonderful 10 years working for both of yous.
My heart is saddened.
He will never be forgotten.
Sincere sympathies extended to the entire Strachan family. I first worked with Don (and Polly) at the Culver Park canteen back when I was a teen and then again in later years at Northern College both in the caf and many, many catering jobs! He was a great man and I will fondly remember him! Hope he’s had a chance to get a “ booster shot” or two with Eleanor and Wilber on the other side! Rest easy Don! Hugs!
My deepest condolences. Always had fun conversations with Don.
Donny was a gem of a human and taught me a lot of how to be a good man . He took me under his wing and was always gracious, kind and so much fun to work with. There is not enough room here to speak to how he influenced my life . I loved you Don like a father and a brother . Rest in peace my friend !! Condolences to all of you on this terrible loss.
Don and I are so very sorry to hear of Don's passing. A Kirkland Lake legend who, along with Polly, catered our wedding all those years ago with his famous prime rib.
Rest in peace.
Our most sincere condolences.
We have fond memories of Don.
Our sincere condolences. We are sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Don was such a great person and businessman. He could cook a prime rib like no other and was always so friendly and organized when preparing for an event. We will remember Don fondly.
We enjoyed so many lovely meals prepared by Don and his staff during my 33 years at Northern College. Don was always so cheerful and pleasant - even when very busy. Please accept our sympathy on his passing.
So sorry to hear of the loss of Don, had many great conversations with him over the years.
He was a true gentleman. May he R I P.
Pat & Lorraine
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing I have many fond memories of Don coming to my workplace. We often talked about his family his children and he always made to to ask of my family. Rest in peace my friend
My thoughts are with you Pauline and your family .
From Katherine and Larry contant
I am so sad to hear of Don's passing. I know the last several years have been difficult for all of you with Don's health issues. I feel like I grew up with Don and Pauline. I have often joked that Polly fed me more often than my mother over the years. Alwas a smile and a story shared over a cheeseburger and a coke. please accept my condolences on your loss. A wonderful man and another Kirkland Lake icon lost.
Paulie…sending my deepest condolences on the loss of your dearest Don…he was a great man. As a couple, you were a Kirkland Lake staple…loved by everyone. Know the community wraps you in a great big hug.
My deepest sympathies on the loss of Mr. Strachan (Don).
The pain is gone, the memories live on in your hearts and your minds.
You will not be forgotten.
Rest In Peace.
my sympathy to the family don was a good boss and a good man he will be missed
My deepest condolences for your loss, Don was such a good man. I remember both of your parents well, such hard working, sweet, kind folks.
So sad to hear of Don’s passing! Please find comfort in your memories. Don and Pauline gave me my first job of making candy floss on Canada Day at Culver Park in Swastika many years ago. He and Pauline fed us popcorn and hot dogs for years during hockey games at the old and new arena. A overall great guy! He will be fondly missed by many . Rest in peace Don
They were the glue that made us feel at home whenever you bump into them. The long goodbye never gets easier, but the people he will meet now he will recognize. My thoughts are with .
Many fond memories of Don at all the venues he worked at, particularly KLCVI and the arena. Enjoyed many conversations with him over the years during visits to KL. My sincerest sympathies to the entire family.
Your husband was a town hero to be remembered by many. As a close friend of the family, my experience with Don has always been a happy one. Along with his wife Polly, he has hosted many sleepovers with two gigglers in the room next door, our friendly friend at the figure skating club, our graduation private party host and “mom and dad” of our high school cafeteria hangout. He was a big part of our early days and I will forever remember. So glad I made it back to KL and got the chance to see him in later years.
RIP Donny. Keep smiling!
My deepest condolences. Losing someone you love is never easy, and my heart goes out to you and your loved ones during this difficult time. Hugs and prayers.
So many memories of your Dad-and always your Mom by his side because they were partners in everything. Mrs. Strachan, I'm so very sorry you have lost your amazing partner. I know the last several years you may have felt you lost him due to that awful disease that is a thief of everything, but even that can't take from you the wonderful life and years you built together and in doing so created a lasting legacy for this town. You both were everywhere-during my teenage years with Michelle, the time you both hosted our friend group before prom, the college cafe when I was in nursing, the many prime rib dinners for so many reasons and functions over the years, the countless hockey games and tournaments you ran your food booth at and even later on when I'd be at the complex with my daughter for figure skating. There were so many times I'd run into you both at the grocery stored you'd be happy and both have the biggest smiles and we'd catch up on what my family was doing now and what Michelle was up to. I'm so sorry he's gone but so grateful for what you both have left so many of us. He will never be forgotten-nor his wonderful big happy smile.
Love to you Mrs. Strachan and Michelle, our thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.️
So sorry to hear about Don’s passing. What a remarkable man he truly will be missed by all who knew him. Polly and Don were also great employers I had the opportunity to work for them over many years starting at culver park King George School and Northern College . Best prime rib and roasted baby potatoes ever. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. RIP .
Dolly, I am so sorry to hear about Don's passing. Don always had a hello when I would see him either at the arena or at the College when we would have our Christmas parties. Thinking of you.
I knew one day I would come across Don's obituary and today was the day. My condolences to everyone, your husband and dad is in a much better place now. You will be missed by everyone who knew you because you were a part of Kirkland Lake's history. RIP Mr Don Strachan
Condolences to all he was a wonderful man. He will be missed. Sorry for your loss.
I was greatly saddened to learn of Don’s passing. I remember with great fondness Don and Pauline when they ran the food services at King George Public School, and their wonderful children who were students there. My sincerest condolences.
Nat Reed
My first and favourite boss. Culver park 1977 brings many fond memories, working the canteen with the boys in the back flipping aces ……I’m thinking there may have been a few shots of whiskey involved here, but despite the seriousness of the game he was always happy to lend a hand if needed. A soft beautiful sole, Kirkland Lake has definitely lost an icon. Rest in peace Don.
My deepest condolence of your great loss. my prayers and thoughts are with you
We are very sorry to receive the news regarding Don. What a great loss to the community! Don always seemed to have a smile, a positive attitude and a great story to tell! He and Pauly were connected to so many aspects in KL and each has left a positive memory! My condolences particularly to the family who attended KLCVI during my days there. More great memories!
Brian and Gale Hamilton
Mr. Strachan was an amazing guy who gave a lot of his time to youth sports.
Whether it was baseball or hockey, he drove us, fed us and cheered us on.
Thank you so much
Oh such a beautiful heart, always had a minute to talk no matter how busy he was. A laugh, a sparkle in his eye. So sorry for your loss of such a vibrant Husband, Father …. May his larger than life memories keep you through this time of loss
My deepest condolences on the passing of Don.
My thoughts are with you.
Carlo and I are so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. The team of Don and Polly have been a huge part of our community! I remember helping to serve at events that Don and Polly catered at the Belvedere Hall, the Adam’s Mine Hall, and Northern College. You were at the Complex for so many events over time in KL. You catered our wedding with a beautiful dinner. Don was certainly a character and Polly’s steadfast support was always evident. He will be missed by many. You are all in our thoughts.
Very saddened to hear of the passing of Donny. He was such a kind, considerate , thoughtful and colourful individual who always had time for a friendly chat and he always showed a genuine interest on how you and your family were doing. I was very blessed to have played many minor sports with his son Mike and Don and his wife Polly were supportive at the vast majority of our games.Kirkland Lake definitely lost an iconic figure for everything Don did in the community and how he interacted with people.
Thanks for the many great memories Don and may you rest in peace.God bless.
Dave Zivkovic
My deepest sympathies on the loss of Mr. Don Strachan.
The pain is gone, the memories live on in your hearts and your minds.
You will not be forgotten, I believe I had a fries and gravy at every location.
Rest In Peace.
Bruce Morgan & Family
I am so sorry to learn of Don's passing, though his big smile will live forever in my heart. I can never have shrimp cocktail or prime rib without thinking of him. He brought much laughter, joy and good food to everyone around him. May he rest in peace.
Hey Neighbours.
After living next to you almost my entire life I would have to say there are a lot of memories, but besides the one where my family nearly blew up your house while building our new house, the one constant that sticks with me was seeing Don and Polly loading up the car at 6 or 7 am heading out to work. They were the Dream Team, the hardest working couple I`ve ever met. No matter what you were involved in, whether it was at the High School, Culver Park, Civic Stadium, Northern College, a wedding, family reunion or funeral, Don and Polly were there side by side feeding you. They are both legends in this town that picture you chose of Don is exactly how I remember him, a beauty. Polly, I`m missing my Monday, Wednesday, Friday drives with you....we`ll have to find something else to do together.
Hugs
Erin and Family
Ya know… I’m only learning of Don and Pauly’s history now. I’ve always wondered where this amazing bunch came from. They seemed to have just appeared in the neighbourhood when we were kids. One nicer and kinder than the next.
Clearly the apple didn’t roll far from the tree when you think of how amazing mom and dad are.
My deepest condolences to Pauline,David, Mike, Michelle and Suzie.
There can’t be a more wonderful bunch than the Strachans. And it started with Don and Pauly.
And as if having them all as next door neighbours was enough.They were ever present everywhere else that mattered in KL. The Rink of course, Civic, Culver… High school…I mean I can’t recall smelling a burger or hot dog and fry and not think of Don and Pauly. My partner Karri Bigelow cut her teeth in the canteens of Don and Pauly , working for them and she has and nothing but amazing praise for how the experience was.
And you certainly were well taken care of when you walked into one of their businesses. A real testament to service and small business acumen that lives with me to this day.
Always smiling… always a chuckle and a kind comment…The Strachans have been deeply woven into the fabric of Kirkland Lake for over 50 yrs. If not working…which seemed like always, they were relaxing at home next door to moms, where we would see them all so frequently with a wave and a smile or if your lucky, a guitar solo from Swammy!
I will always have a special place in my heart Don and Pauly as they were parents away from home…Caring for us , no matter if you lost a game, flunked a test, maybe a wee bit tipsy at an event… they were a steadying force to all us kids. And because they treated us always with respect, it seemed it was all we could do to repay them was try and return the gesture. So hugs and big love all around you guys as you mourn this loss . Don that infectious smile and laugh will always be missed. Rest in peace sir… your work here is done. A+
Mr., Strachan, this is just a promotion for you from all the pain and frustration to the world you did not see...
My sympathy to all of Dons family and friends. I am honoured to have been a part of the care team at Extendicare caring for Don. I will always remember his laugh, his eye contact ( had some serious convos just with looks and his finger lol ) and sharing all his picture books with him. He had a lot of amazing memories to cherish. May he rest in peace and always be remembered ️
Oh my ... Don ... My regret is not visiting you folks! 'job vending machines' is where I had the BEST opportunity as a teen with Don. HE saved MY life. #troubledteen Don allowed me to work for him at our local arena. I worked hard, learned one heck of a lot, memorized cash back, became quite the 'amazing give cash back real quick' during hockey games. Thank you Sir! A few times, Don was disappointed in me; I knew, he knew, and I still know, he knew, he said 'nothing.' I carry the guilt to this day. A roll of quarters WAS a lot of cash those days. Pauline, Don was the kindest man, and a great teacher. Maybe Don didn't know he was a teacher, but he was to me. Prayers. Love. Respect. Jane McNamara Zoschke
