In Loving Memory of

Donald Joseph Buchanan

Apr 17, 1937 - Oct 30, 2024

Donald Joseph Buchanan, born April 17, 1937, passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 87 in Edmonton. He was predeceased by his beloved spouse of 52 years, Diane Bernice Buchanan, and is survived by his daughters, Ruth, Susan (Mike), Meagan, and Colleen (Todd); and his much-loved grandson, Matthew.

Don was the only child of Mansur Carlyle (Bay) Buchanan and Margaret Buchanan of Edmonton. While still a teenager, working on an oil rig, he was involved in a serious industrial accident and spent nearly two years in hospital, where he met his future wife, Diane, a nurse. They were married shortly thereafter, while he was in law school at the University of Alberta, and their first child was born during his final examinations in the spring of 1963. Donald had a long and respected career in law, founding the firm Lavallee Buchanan in 1965. Early in their married life, Don and Diane moved to a farm north of the city, where they raised their family. There he was also able to pursue his passion for thoroughbred racehorses, becoming an owner and breeder, contributing to the local racing community by serving on the board of Edmonton Northlands, the Horseman’s Benevolent and Protective Association, and the Racing Commission of Alberta. In 1991, he was appointed to the Provincial Court of Alberta, where he began a new chapter of his legal career in the Family and Youth Court Division. He retired from the court in 2007 but continued to serve part time as a supernumerary judge until 2014. He was a sociable man who enjoyed golf and curling and continued to be active into his later years. During his long life, Don was many things to many people: a devoted father and husband, a trusted advisor, a loyal friend, a patient mentor, and a wise decision-maker. He will be very missed by many. Don’s family will be gathering remembrances of Don’s life at donbuchananmemorial@gmail.com. We ask that you share your memories with us.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Foster & McGarvey Funeral Home, 10011-114 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5K 1R5, at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Memorial Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Salvation Army Alberta and Northern Territories Division, 9618 101A Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5H 0C7, or Bissell Center, 10527-96 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5H 2H6.

Arrangements entrusted to Foster & McGarvey Downtown Funeral Home.