Obituary of Donald J. Swan

82, passed away June 6, 2015  at the Queen Elizabeth Health Sciences Centre, V.G. site. Born in Halifax, he was the son of Harry Swan and Marion (nee Whalen) Hobrecker. He is survived by Rufine (nee Bona), his wife of nearly 61 years; son, Harry and daughter, Julia and granddaughters Lea and Lesley. He was predeceased by his parents, uncles, aunts and several cousins. Don was a career firefighter, serving 33 years with the Halifax Fire Department, rising through the ranks to chief. He was a keen student of the science of firefighting. His joy in life was driving: fire apparatus, his delivery truck for A.M Bell's before he joined HFD and his own vehicles. An avid model railroader, he meticulously crafted his layout with his customary eye for detail and precision. Don loved animals, extending care to many stray cats and he doted on Scruffy. His family will remember his kind, generous heart, his selfless devotion to those he loved and his sense of humour. Special thanks to the staff of 6B, who cared for him so well in his last weeks, and to the Palliative Care staff who helped make his last hours easier. No visitation. Cremation has taken place under the care of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home. There will be a funeral mass at St. John the Baptist Church on Thursday, June 11 at 10:00 with private interment.  Donations in his memory can be made to Hope for Wildlife.