Donald James Lytle passed away peacefully at his Chartwell Montgomery residence in Orangeville on January 2, 2023 at the age of 86. Don was born in Sudbury Ontario, the eldest of four siblings (Doreen Eby, Gerald Lytle, Mae Robitaille) and was the last surviving member. He survived his loving wife Marilyn (Spenceley) Lytle who passed August 2021.
Don began his professional career in Orillia teaching French at ODCVI and later moved to Park Street Collegiate as Head of the French Department. He eventually transitioned to the next phase of his career helping his fellow teachers as their Simcoe County Insurance Trustee Liason. In retirement he continued to serve his community as a volunteer and President of the Headwaters Hospital Auxiliary in Orangeville.
Don was known for his kindness, leadership, big heart and passion for what he believed. Every story about him is told with a smile. As a sports enthusiast he frequently attended the matches of his kids and grandkids – as a spectator or coach. Don also had a real soft spot for animals – adopting and caring for many cats and dogs over the years.
Beyond his passion for sports – hockey, tennis, golf and fishing, he loved games of chance and skill – bridge, euchre and harness racing. While not overly competitive, it was simply the fun and challenge of games that gave him such a playful spark.
His legacy lives on through his children – Chris (Kim) Lytle, Renee (Sophie) Lytle – his step children – Sandy (Devony) Spenceley, Jim (Anna) Spenceley, Janet Jonkman and all the wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren that have shared in his life. We couldn’t have asked for a better father or grandfather.
A funeral service will be held at St. James Catholic Church, 2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham on Wednesday, January 11th at 10:30am, followed by the burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bolton and reception at Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213).
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Headwaters Health Care Foundation http://www.headwatershealth.ca
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Mary Sullivan-Tate
My husband, Ken Tate and I worked with Don as volunteers at Headwaters Hospital in Orangeville for many years. He was a wonderful, caring man and so knowledgeable about everything going on at the hospital. I remember him showing me around the various parts of the hospital and introducing me to so many members of the staff when I was starting out as a patient escort. I just talked to Don a few days before Christmas and we had a lovely chat. Our condolences to all of Don’s family.
Sereeta Khara
On behalf of E.B. Horsman & Son, we extend our sincerest condolences to the Lytle Family. May the memories you have created stay with you always.
Meg Pritty
While I lived at Chartwell, Don was always very friendly to me, especially after I lost my husband. I offer condolences to his family.
Ken Graham
Don led a full and remarkable life. He enriched many people in both his professional life and his volunteerism at Headwaters. He always thought of others.
Joe Bawden
I am so sad to hear of Don’s passing. I’ve known Don for quite awhile. While working on my family tree I was told to contact my cousin Don who was also doing his family. With a grandmother and grandfather in common our trees blended perfectly. I met with Don and Marilyn and we worked together on our trees. Eventually my wife (Sue) and I enjoyed just visiting with them socially. Interestingly Sue knew them both very well from her years living in Orillia. We will miss them both.