Obituary of Donald Cameron "Don" Ashton

93, Halifax, passed away quietly May 5, 2013 in the V.G Site, QEII, Palliative Care Unit. Born in Ecum Secum, he was the son of the late Everet and Jenny (Cameron) Ashton. He left school in his early teens to help his father fish and look after the store, which Everet had for many years. Later at 17, he went to work logging in the winter and picking apples in the summer. It was during one of these summers he saw a most beautiful brand new DeSoto convertible in Berwick, driven by a young lady with two small children, but the car is what struck his eye! In 1940, Donald joined the army and transferred shortly there after to the Medical Corp. It was in this capacity, Private Ashton made 32 crossings of the Atlantic (64 both ways) and was awarded the Atlantic Star which was an oddity for an army man. He also crossed Canada on several occasions, escorting prisoners of war out west. He loved the sea and was always happiest aboard ship. Donald left the services in the late forties as a Company Sergeant Major and in 1952, he married the lady driving the DeSoto convertible, Iona DeWinter. He adapted to civilian life by taking tradesman courses and finally settled on welding, eventually opening her own business Donion Welding, Donion, the first three letters of Dad and Mom’s first name. He retired from welding in his early seventies and took up gardening which he loved. He is survived by son, Eric, his wife Linda, grand daughter Katrina, both of Halifax. He was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Iona, brother, Laurie. Arrangements are under the care of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd. (477-5601). No visitation or service by request. Interment to take place at a later date. Special thank you to the doctors and nurses of the Palliative Care Unit V.G. Site, QEII, for their kindness and understanding, they are special people and thank you to Donald Cameron of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd. for his help at a time like this.