Skip to content
June 29, 1930 - August 31, 2022

In loving memory ~
A well-known long -time resident of North Oyster District has passed at the age or 92.
Born Donna Jean Powelson, Donna Bell (later, Caillet) was the eleventh of twelve children born to David and Genevieve Powelson in Raymond, Alberta.
The Powelsons moved to North Vancouver when Donna was in her teens. She left for Vancouver Island when she married Fred Bell. They had five children: Maureen, Donna Lee, Jacki, Carol (who passed) and Fred. She later married Armand Caillet, whom she survived.
In the little house on Cedar Road Donna's family was an active part of that rural community, and Donna was a participant in all the events and projects of the day including Ladies' Auxiliary, Brownies and Guides. Her door was always open and the teapot ready for guests.
Donna was an avid reader. She followed current affairs and was interested in the world. She encouraged her children to explore and to be willing to try new adventures, learning, and skills and, of course, to love reading.
She also filled what spare time she had with beautiful knitting projects and with sewing. She was known for great homemade bread and excellent cinnamon buns. She loved beautiful creations and cherished some rare and delicate china pieces just for the pleasure of admiring the workmanship.
In those simpler times, Donna's house was busy and typical for the day. But there are a few things about her that many people did not know. She loved music, especially anything with a lot of energy in it such as recordings by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. She had a wonderful singing voice. She rarely sang in anyone else's hearing, but a music teacher heard her one day and tried to persuade her to develop a career. She loved to laugh and had a quick sense of humor. When time was spent with her brothers and sisters there was plenty of fun conversation and stories.
Donna passed quietly at a care home in Duncan. Before she left she made it clear how much she appreciated all the help of her family and also of the kindness and attention of the staff at the care home. She told family members that she felt peaceful and safe.
Donna very specifically requested no funeral and memorial service and her family are respecting that request. Many thanks to all who have expressed sympathy. Donna wanted everyone to know she was proud of her 92 years and felt she had "been very lucky" in her life.
Donna is lovingly remembered by all her extended family including grandchildren and great-grandchildren and friends and neighbours from North Oyster, and later Lantzville and Chemainus who knew her well.
To express condolences, share memories and photos, please visit: www.sandsduncan.ca.





Secondary Title

Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.