SINCLAIR, Donald John

June 25, 1944 - June 21, 2020

Mr. Donald John Sinclair, of St. Albert, AB, died on June 21, 2020 at the age of 75. Don was born on June 25, 1944 in Lafleche, Saskatchewan. His parents, LT. F.J.W. and Mae Sinclair, moved Don to Swift Current where his sister Dianne (Martens) was born and the family settled. He graduated from Swift Current Collegiate Institute. In 1965, Don married Ann, and the couple had 3 children, Gregory, Crystal and Matthew. Don had originally wanted to be a veterinarian but while waiting for his acceptance letter to arrive he started his career in the newspaper industry. Don worked in several cities across the country and was an integral part of establishing the newspaper industry in Canada. In 1969 he joined Bowes Publishing Ltd. and went on to hold many positions including Pressman, Editor, Publisher, Group Publisher and Chief Operating Officer at several newspapers until finally settling in St. Albert, AB in 1988.

Don had a passion for nature, music and loved photography. He enjoyed road trips in his motorhome with his friends and family. He was a conversationalist and always had time to share a joke, beer or some friendly advice when consulted. He was also a classic car enthusiast and loved showing off his pride and joy – a 49’ Ford Meteor. He was a big-time Saskatchewan Roughriders fan and loved his dog Ely who he affectionately called his "little buddy. ”

Don had a lifelong dedication to writing about challenging issues which he knew were important. He worked countless hours on his site (mybirdie.com) so his readers would become informed about the St. Albert community which he dearly loved. He cared, and he wanted you to as well. This was his platform to create dialogue, learn from and for others to gain different perspectives. It didn’t matter if the opinions differed from his or not. He was always ready to engage in lively conversation and was never afraid to stir the pot. Don is loved and missed by his wife, Ann; children, Greg, Crystal, and Matt (Holly); grandchildren, Nick, Jett and Shiloh, great grandson Christian and sister; Dianne, inlaws, nephews, nieces and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Finlay and Mae.

At Don’s request, no service will be held. We will be holding a Celebration of Life by RSVP on

Sunday July 12, 2020 in St. Albert, AB. If you would like to attend please send your interest to mybirdie@telus.net.

We are also requesting stories and pictures to create a tribute which can be sent to the same email address.