April 22, 2022
Don Maitland, also affectionately known by his trucker handle, Ol' Pokey, peacefully passed away in the presence of loved ones on 4-22-22 in Creston, BC.
Pokey was born in Rossland BC in 1944 and eventually settled in Terrace with his wife Colleen. Their son Shane came along and they called Terrace home. Don worked for Lindsay's Cartage and Storage and quickly became a staple in Terrace for his kindness and his 'Service before Self' attitude, if someone from along his North route needed something, Pokey would get it.
It wasn't long before countless hours were spent with families at the rink and more countless hours spent driving the buses for Terrace Minor Hockey. Don treasured the moments with families and friends cheering on their children and sharing the essential coffee in the stands.
Fate would take over and Pokey lost Colleen in 2008. Don is predeceased by his father Robert, mother Ellie, brothers Bill and Bobby and wife Colleen.
Don would then find another special person in his life, his wife Bea. They moved to Creston and enjoyed the weather and the joys of retirement, filled with camping and travel.
Pokey had many health challenges thrown at him, and in true Pokey fashion, met them head on with never a complaint. The epitome of optimism. The glass was always half full for Pokey.
His infectious joy and humbleness touched everyone around him. Rain? "Keeps the dust down" Don would say with a grin. Snow? "We'll have plenty of water in the spring!" Again with that smile. Pokey was an old soul, never met a stranger and never had a bad day. A selfless man that ensured the joy and comfort of others before himself.
He will be dearly missed from all that had the pleasure of knowing him.
Don is survived by his wife Bea, son Shane and wife Tiffany, son Toby and wife Holly, grandchildren, Trenton (Jessica), Colton (Carys), Madelyn, Marcus and Matthew, two great grandchildren, Easton and Bauer, and Pokey's extended family and friends.
"When you meet someone, give them a smile! When they leave, give em a bigger smile! It's contagious and may make their day! Keep Smilin" - Pokey