Red Deer philanthropist Jack Donald, a former citizen of the year and city alderman, has passed away.
On Friday, Mayor Ken Johnston issued a statement in response to Donald’s passing.
“Jack was a remarkable leader, contributing over 50 years to the growth and development of Red Deer and Central Alberta as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community builder,” the mayor’s statement reads.
“His vision and business acumen significantly impacted the local economy, creating jobs and attracting investment. Jack’s tireless charitable efforts have left a lasting impact on various community causes.
“Named Red Deer’s Citizen of the Year in 2002, Jack Donald leaves behind a legacy of community spirit, business brilliance, leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering volunteerism that will resonate throughout Central Alberta for generations.”
Jack and Joan Donald moved to Red Deer from Edmonton in 1964. They started Parkland Oil Products Ltd. that year and then sold the company, with 38 service station outlets, to Turbo Resources in 1971.
Donald joined Turbo as director and vice-president of marketing until he and Joan bought control of publicly-traded company Parkland Beef Industries Ltd., which became Parkland Industries Ltd.
Parkland Industries, headquartered in Red Deer, became a fuel distribution company with Fas Gas retail service stations. By the time Donald retired as President and CEO in 2002, Parkland Industries had its own refinery and 454 retail service stations in Western and Northern Canada.
While running the fuel distribution company, Jack also operated Parkland Properties Ltd., an investment and real estate business established in 1968. In addition, Jack was co-founder of Park Country Broadcasting (KG Country) in Red Deer. He was also a partner and vice-president of Brandt Industries Ltd. of Regina.
Scott Robinson, Red Deer and District Chamber of Commerce CEO, said Donald will be “sadly missed” in Central Alberta.
“Jack was a community icon. The Donald family, not only were they probably the most successful business people to come from Red Deer, but they also became the biggest donors back to the community over those years,” Robinson said.
“It’s a sad day when someone of that stature leaves us. There’s certainly a hole that will be felt in the community. … We’re certainly sad today on behalf of the business community.”
In addition to his business legacy, Donald served with the Optimist Club and Rotary Club, and was a Red Deer city alderman in the 1970s. He was an Alberta Order of Excellence inductee in 2015 and a Southern Alberta Business Hall of Fame inductee in 2011.
“His dedication to education led him to serve on the board of governors for Red Deer College, where the Donald School of Business stands as a testament to their generosity,” Johnston said.
“Jack’s contributions extended to Westerner Park, where he played a pivotal role in relocating the exhibition grounds and building key facilities. “
Westerner Park issued a statement on social media Friday afternoon.
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jack Donald, who was a true community champion and played a pivotal role in transforming Westerner Park in Red Deer,” a Westerner Park Facebook post states.
“Jack’s unwavering commitment to the community was evident in his leadership on the Westerner Exhibition board since 1979. His vision and dedication led to the relocation of the exhibition grounds and the construction of the iconic Parkland Pavilion and the 7,000-seat Centrium Arena, home to the Red Deer Rebels.”
The post adds that the Donalds’ contributions were “instrumental” to the construction of the organization’s Donald Administration Building.
“Today, we remember Jack not only for his visionary impact on our community but also for the countless lives he touched through his philanthropy. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. Jack’s legacy will forever be etched in the heart of Westerner Park and the entire Red Deer community,” the Westerner Park post said.
Red Deer Polytechnic issued a statement as well, calling Donald “a true champion and friend” of the post-secondary institution.
“Jack and wife Joan remained ardent supporters of Red Deer Polytechnic since its inception, and could often be seen attending events and providing their support to initiatives here at RDP,” the statement said.
“The Donalds are always among the first to step forward with their generosity and active participation because they believe in the power of education, and because they believe in our students and the immense impact that students have on the world around them.
The Donalds have created a legacy for community building, the RDP statement added.
“A legacy that includes the establishment of the Donald School of Business, Science and Computing, and the Donald Heath and Wellness Centre at Red Deer Polytechnic,” said RDP.
“Jack’s legacy continues to touch the lives of thousands of students each and every day and will have an indelible impact on our community, the province of Alberta and beyond for years to come.”
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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