Here’s to my Grand-dog. Donald Alec Snobelen.

Jan 22, 2019 | Blog | 4 comments

In loving memory of
Donald Alec Snobelen
January 21, 1918 – June 19, 2003

He was born on January 21, 1918 in Mullingar, Saskatchewan. Two months premature.

As you can imagine. Saskatchewan + January + 1918 = blizzard.

My great-grandfather headed out to town on the horses to get the doctor. So, my grand-dog Don was delivered by his uncle (his mother’s brother).

He spent his first months incubating in a tiny bed next to the fireplace of his families sod hut.

In many ways the story of his birth, is the story of his life. He was feisty and stubborn.

More than anything else, he was a man of incredible loyalty and deep faith.

His 61-year partnership with my Nana Phyllis is an inspiration. He showed me how to love and respect.

His powerful teachings laid the groundwork for all his children and grandchildren to live with integrity.

Grand-dog lived a life of service

Grand-dog served his creator and his community. A modest man, he shied away from the finer things in life to give of himself, his time and money to those around him.

Some of you will remember his art. Soil was his medium, and the earth his canvas. There were two stops for tourist busses on the Saanich Peninsula, Grand-dogs garden on McTavish Road and Butchart Gardens.

He was one of the original garden maintenance contractors in Victoria. He tended the gardens at the Empress Hotel and Fable Cottage. And, he was always in quiet competition with the moss hanging basket makers for the the city. We are certain we know who made the best moss hanging basket.

There is no question that my Grand-dog left a mark on me.

Although I never followed him into being a preacher-man, I know the times I stand up to speak to the multitude, that I inherited just a little of his eloquence.

One thing though. Right up until his final days we was certain the olive oil treatment he applied to his bald head was helping his hair grow. I, on the other hand, have fully accepted his genes and embraced my reality. No olive oil for me.

It has been 15 years Grand-dog. Even though you didn’t get involved in politics because you were a conscientious objector, I think you would be proud. I didn’t get a chance to eulogize your passing, so I pause to celebrate your 101st birthday.

Donald Alec Snobelen, I hope that I can be half the man that you were.

 


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4 Comments

  1. John Glover

    Adam: I am certain that there is a story behind your reference to Donald Alec Snobelen as “Grand-Dog”. I would be interested in that story… Seems an unusual salutation for a revered elder…

    Enjoying your blogs and really enjoyed the Mayne Island Town Hall meeting….

    JohnG

    • Adam Olsen

      That was the relationship I had with my revered grandfather. We was (and is) my Grand-dog. I never called him this as a kid but as we grew older that’s what I called him. And he would always shoot me a smile and ask… “So what have you done that is profitable today?”

  2. Erika Kanczula

    I agree that you have received your “Grand-dog’s” gift of eloquence. It is always a pleasure to listen to you speak with such clarity and strength from the heart.

    • Adam Olsen

      Thank you Erika!

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