Donnel O’Brien Sabey Qc

Don passed away peacefully on July 28, 2021 after 91 years of a wonderful life.

He was a much loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend. He leaves behind Karleen, his beloved wife of 70 years, his sons David (Candace), Steve (Sharon), and Scott (Deanna), 5 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Don grew up in Raymond Alberta with 3 siblings before leaving at 19 years of age for the University of Utah to study law. It was there he met the love of his life Karleen Randall.  She loved and inspired him and will desperately miss his love and the touch of his warm hand. He adored her and would do anything for her.  They married in 1951 and two sons soon followed. No strangers to hard work the two of them put Don through law school.  With two sons in tow they went to Calgary where an articling position with the Bennett Jones Law Firm awaited.  Don stayed there his entire career, practicing law for more than 50 years. Don practiced as a barrister before Provincial Courts, and successfully pleaded often before the Supreme Court of Canada. His clientele included judges, lawyers, corporations, charities and individuals. Among his many honours are: appointment to the Office of Queen’s Counsel; Bencher of the Law Society of Alberta; Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers; and, Provincial Chair of ACTL. Don declined an offer of appointment to the Bench from the Prime Minister’s Office, citing the loss of freedom and more particularly his love of his profession.

Don’s love of the practice of law was rivalled only by his love of golf, as evidenced by his lowest handicap of 6.  He started golfing at 15 years old on Temple Hill in Raymond, and played all over the world – Scotland, England, Hawaii.  He even teed off at midnight in the far north so he could represent his clients in the light of day.  The Calgary Golf and Country Club was always home for golf and friendships.

Don cared deeply for others, which was reflected in how much his clients loved him, and how many people he served.  He strongly believed in education and paid for the education of many. He represented many at no cost and donated to many causes.

Don was keenly interested in all things, from politics, to legal issues, to science, to religion, to just plain “how are you doing”.  He thought of his profession, his community, and most of all his family.  It’s been said great minds think of great things – he always did.

He was interested not just in the subject but the way others thought. His keen mind served him well to the very end. He gave us the freedom to decide, the guidance when needed, the support required, and the unconditional love.  He will be missed.

A Funeral Service will be held for Don at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Willow Park Chapel (940 Acadia Drive SE, Calgary) on Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at 2:00 pm.

We request all attendees be vaccinated and wear a mask while in attendance.

Those wishing to watch the service from the comfort of their home may do so via the zoom link

here

In lieu of flowers please make a generous donation to your favourite charity.