Daniel (Dan, Danny) Angus McDonald passed away on February 11, 2015 from diabetic kidney failure. He is survived by his mother: Pearleen Spanos; three children: Jennie (Krynski), Parker McDonald, and Jackie McDonald; grandchildren: Tynan and Ava (Krynski), and Mirra (Roberts); sisters: Darleen (Edlund), Joanne (LaBelle), Tammy (Molander), Pam (McSkimming); and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was predeceased by his father, Jim McDonald.
Dan was born in New Westminster on Nov. 7, 1951, and grew up in Surrey, BC. Most of his adult life was spent in Fernie, BC, where he became proficient in the industrial construction business. Spare moments were spent exploring the mountains with his family and friends. Dan loved to fish, hunt, ski and snowmobile. These passions inspired him to build the original Island Lake Lodge in Fernie (1988) and later the Revelstoke-based Mica Heliskiing Lodge (2003). His favorite past time was hanging out at ‘The Lodge’ proudly wearing a ball cap or vest with logo displayed. Days would often find him driving the snowcat, while evenings were spent entertaining guests with his guitar and his gift for storytelling. As a leader in the Cat and Heliski Industry, he was a director of the Canadian Avalanche Association
for five years.
Dan embraced life with energy and vision. He was delighted to include his family & friends in his ventures whenever possible. His gentle and generous nature will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 10446 – 157th Str.,
Surrey, BC on February 22, 2015 at 2:00 pm.
In memory of Dan and to ensure the continuation of his tireless support of young people desiring to enter the backcountry industry, a memorial fund has been set up to encourage those seeking a career in this field.
Donations to be directed to:
Dan McDonald Backcountry Scholarship Fund
c/o Island Lake Resort Group
Box 1229 (602a – 2nd Ave),
Fernie, B.C. V0B 1M0
Attn: Doug Feely, CEO
250-423-3700 (ext 3010)
doug@islandlakeresorts.com