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DR. DONALD ZASADA
Born: Mar 04, 1940
Date of Passing: Dec 28, 2024
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
DR. DONALD ZASADA
Dr. Donald Zasada (84) passed away peacefully on December 28, surrounded by his loving family.
Don was born in Winnipeg on March 4, 1940, to Ludwik and Katherian Zasada, and was the younger brother of Bernice.
Early in life it was evident that Don demonstrated exceptional capabilities in both academics and athletics. At Daniel McIntyre Collegiate, Don excelled in football, so much so that he ended up being invited to try out for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers under Coach Bud Grant.
With no future in playing professional football, Don got serious about postsecondary education and enrolled at the University of Manitoba. Don obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in 1964 and a Master of Science degree in 1967. A Ph.D. degree in Agricultural Economics was earned in 1982.
Don married his wife Pat (Bourke) in 1975, and they welcomed a daughter (Erin) in 1977 and son (Sean) in 1979.
Don was a lifelong civil servant, dutifully serving the Province of Manitoba. He was appointed Deputy Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs in 1981, overseeing the Consumers’ Bureau, Rentalsman’s Office, Tenancy Arbitration Bureau, Corporations Branch, Insurance Branch, the Embalmers’ and Funeral Directors’ Board, in addition to his role as Director of Departmental Program and Policy Support. In 1996, Don was appointed Deputy Minister of Agriculture, a position he held until he retired.
Don was a family man at heart. He enjoyed coaching soccer, baseball, hockey, being a Beaver Leader, chauffeuring to and from the stable, and teaching his kids how to golf. Many memories were created as a family over summers at Clear Lake.
As an avid sports enthusiast, Don enjoyed recreational curling, where he met his wife, Pat. Later in life, golf at Breezy Bend Country Club became a passion.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, his daughter Erin, son Sean (Ruth), grandchildren, Brayden and Jack, cat Boomer, nephew Colin (Becky) Craig and family. He was predeceased by his parents and sister.
The family extends its gratitude for the exceptional care Don received from caregiver Wes, homecare nurses, Vanessa, Lois, and Teresa, and Dr. David Breckman.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter or the Winnipeg Humane Society.
Publish Date: Jan 11, 2025
DR. DONALD ZASADA
Peacefully on the morning of December 28, 2024, with his loving family by his side, Donald passed away at the age of 84 years.
A memorial service will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Avenue.
A longer obituary notice to follow in Saturday’s edition.
Publish Date: Dec 31, 2024 Make a donation to
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2024, Jan 11, 2025
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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Don hired me just out of university in 1974 and initially he and I took turns sitting in the gallery at the legislature for Question Period ready to run downstairs to assist the Minister. We were "Research and Planning" ...one week I was "Research" and the next I was "Planning". He was a good and highly intelligent man and tolerated my annoying youthful energy until I left to go to Ottawa in 1977...one place he said he would never return to. My sympathy to his family. - Posted by: Andrew Klymchuk (Colleague) on: Feb 04, 2025
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Condolences to Pat, Erin, Sean, Ruth, Boomer family and friends. I had the honor and pleasure of knowing and cooking for Don ( and Pat ) when they visited the US and also in Winnipeg. Even if we just shared, pasta, meatballs pizza, beer and played Black Jack, Pat and Don where always very kind, entertaining and gracious, Don never sent a meal back to my kitchen. Don was a gentle man and a gentleman. Don will always be in our hearts and thoughts and generate smiles and good memories. - Posted by: Peter margolin (Part Time Chef and Very lucky friend) on: Jan 17, 2025
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I met Don many times in my role as a volunteer with the Consumers' Association of Canada. We had many productive meetings about consumer issues. Don was always willing to listen and then work to resolve issues. Plus he was a charming man so it was always a pleasure to work with him. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Wendy Barker (Volunteer with CAC) on: Jan 15, 2025
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My deepest sympathy to you and your family, Erin. My heart is with you as you learn to live without your Dad. Miss you. No jays this winter!! - Posted by: Linda McKay (neighbour) on: Jan 12, 2025
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I played football with Dr. Don for one of Winnipeg's junior football teams. Of course, he wasn't a doctor at the time. Please pass my condolences to his family Bob Roe - Posted by: Bob Roe (Football days) on: Jan 11, 2025
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I am so very sorry for your loss Pat. Don was a great guy and he will be very much missed. My sincere Condolences to you an your family. - Posted by: Bonnie Carvell (friend) on: Jan 03, 2025
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I worked with Dr. Donald Zasada for five years in the Research & Planning Branch, Consumer & Corporate Affairs, Gov't. of Manitoba in the early 1980s. I fondly remember him as a caring & compassionate boss. I remember Don always took chocolate milk and a slice of apple pie as his lunch at the legislative dining room. My deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Dr. Bong-Hwan Kim (Coworker) on: Jan 01, 2025
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I enjoyed the advice and friendship of Don during my time with him as Deputy Minister, The province will miss his councel and guidence, I will not be able to attend his funeral as I will be away, but my thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Jim Ernst (worked together) on: Dec 31, 2024
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I worked with Don for many years in the 1980s and 1990s at Consumer and Corporate Affairs. I enjoyed working for him and found him a dedicated and compassionate person. My deepest sympathy to his family. - Posted by: Brenda Samchek (Worked for him) on: Dec 31, 2024
