Dr. D.J. (Don) Lawrence 1936 to 2025
Don died peacefully surrounded by his family at the Sea to Sky Hospice on March 31. His wife Pauline, daughters Rose (Jeff) and Carolyn (Nigel), brother Rick (Joan), and granddaughters Pippa and Mia will miss him greatly.
He grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia and attended QEH then Dalhousie University. He earned his PhD at Queen Mary College, University of London, England where he furthered his love of physics, took up dinghy racing and met Pauline.
Don’s career as a research scientist and oceanographer at Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) spanned over 35 years. His work focussed on modelling surface currents on the Scotian Shelf. He embraced changes in the field from paper calculations to large computer models. Projects took him out on research ships in the North Atlantic and Don had many stories of life at sea.
His physics knowledge, natural curiosity and enthusiasm helped with tinkering on his Mini Cooper rally car, his daughter’s physics and calculus classes, and fixing just about anything. Don was involved in his daughters’ and granddaughters’ lives and proud of their achievements.
Throughout his life, Don was an avid sailor. He was also keenly interested in local theatre where his technical skills came to the fore with sound and lighting. He enjoyed adventure and he and Pauline travelled widely.
In 2005, Don and Pauline moved to B.C., leaving behind good friends in Halifax and gaining new ones in Squamish. Don enthusiastically took up volunteering on projects at the 蜜桃视频appRailway Museum and working with the brush-back group of the Trails Society and the Streamkeepers.
Towards the end of his life, Don was well supported by many caring members from Sea to Sky Home Support, and in final days the Sea to Sky Hospice. We are grateful for their compassionate care.
Don was well loved by friends and family and will be remembered for his jovial story telling. His full life will have us reminiscing for years to come. To write a condolence to the family, please visit
