Donald James Garnham

With sadness we announce that Donny Garnham passed away on January 6, 2025 at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 71 years. 

Donny is survived by his sisters Gwen Armishaw, Myrna (Roy) Dezeng and Marge (Victor) Smoke, all of Portage la Prairie, MB and sisters-in-law Carol B. Garnham of Portage la Prairie, MB and Sally Vivier of Calgary, AB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Donny was predeceased by his parents James and Pearl (nee Favel) Garnham, brothers Ron and Ben Garnham, sister Brenda Garnham and brother-in-law Bill Armishaw. 

Donny was born in October 1953 as the oldest of twins and second of seven children.  Donny always enjoyed the outdoors and playing with his siblings, as well as hunting and trapping in the winter months. Being one of the oldest of seven, he was often in charge of hauling in wood for heating the family home. Growing up, Donny and his siblings were fortunate to live nearby extended family, which included many cousins, and this allowed for a large family baseball game or two.

As a young adult, Donny worked in various labour jobs.  

Donny was especially close to his twin brother Ronny, and he was at a loss after Ronny passed suddenly in 2005. Donny was also close to his younger brother Ben, and he loved visits at Portage la Prairie and Calgary. 

In 2008, Donny underwent a triple bypass surgery which seemed to limit his physical activities. In his later years, he enjoyed socializing over coffee. 

The family would like to express their thanks to the staff at PDGH, especially the Rehab Unit for the compassionate care they provided to Donny during his time there. 

Donny’s family will celebrate his life privately. 

If friends so desire, donations may be made in Donny’s memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5, or Central Plains Cancer Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 0K8. 

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com