Don was raised on the family farm at Austin and resided there until failing health dictated his move to the MacGregor District Health Centre.  

In later years the farm became known as "Graycott Dairy Farm" and forty holstein heifers were introduced to "on-line" milking.  Don ran the dairy until 1977.  He also mowed grass, plowed snow for local businesses and private individuals, he ran the water treatment plant and picked up garbage in the town of Austin.  He was also a member of the Austin Fire Department for many years.  

Don always enjoyed meeting his friends for coffee and a chat on a daily basis.  He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.  

Don is predeceased by his parents Charles and Edna Hotel, and his younger brother Brian.

Don is survived by his son Allan; daughter Heather (Les) Szelei; sisters Marjorie (Marcel) Boulet, Valerie (Reg) Davey; numerous neices, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren; and also his devoted friend and companion Lynne Deeley.