Donald John Ronald Nemrava passed away peacefully on May 5th 2021, aged 96.
Born and raised in Vancouver, Don was a versatile and accomplished man with a strong work ethic. As a young man, he assisted his father managing hotels, worked building “flying boats” as part of Boeing Aircraft’s war effort, and as crew on CPR ships.
With his wife Louise, Don owned and operated “Radio Water Taxi” out of Horseshoe Bay for over 30 years. Don was a skilled mariner and kept the water taxi service operating 24/7 through all kinds of weather. His mechanical, engineering and woodworking skills were always in use at work and at home for his family.
Later in life, Don built model ships and assisted the Vancouver Maritime Museum with repairs and restorations of exhibits. He was a member of the Howe Sound Lions Club and part of the regular crowd at Troll’s, sharing coffee and the latest news.
Don was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 72 years, Louise, and his 3 children, Gloria Davidson (Vance Smelland), Michael Nemrava (Maureen Nemrava passed in 2017) and Jeffrey Nemrava (Kimberley Nemrava), and son-in-law Larry Davidson.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mount St. Mary Hospital, 861 Fairfield Road, Victoria, whose staff were so caring and compassionate in his final months.
Condolences to the family may be left below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Zoltan Vincze
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Susan and Grahame Dunlop Our sincere sympathies to Louise, Gloria and Vance, Michael, Jeffrey and Kimberley and Larry. We will sincerely miss our Cousin Donald, as he was a well loved member of my family. Will sincere miss you Donald.
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Chad Smith I did not know Don personally, but it is clear from my cousins, Kimberley, Sandy and Shirley that he was a respected and well loved man. Jeff and family, I wish you ‘fair winds and following seas’ in coping with your loss. Take care.
My family arrived in Horseshoe Bay in 1957 as refugees before I was born and the Nemrava’s were the first to welcome us. Through those early years, in good and not so good times, Don and the family where there with love and support. My memories run from Don being a member of the local volunteer fire hall to being invited on the “Wee-Willie” occasionally for trips to Gambier or Keats.
I am truly grateful I had opportunities to visit with Don & Louise together while in Victoria.
Our thoughts are with Louise (Auntie Lou), Gloria, Michael & Jeff.