Published in The Lake Report, July 16, 2026, page 26.
It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Donald Chew, who left us peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the age of 84.
Born and raised in the Niagara region, Don’s ties to the community ran deep. He spent 47 years practising medicine in the area he always called home. Truly a man for whom “still waters run deep,” he was quiet and humble, never seeking the spotlight. Instead, he was endlessly curious about the world around him and constantly looked for ways to support and help his family, his friends, his patients, and the teams he worked with. He was deeply fond of his team at Niagara Neurological Services and grateful for the shared dedication of the nurses and medical professionals on the Niagara Regional Stroke Team. For him, medicine was simply a meaningful way to be of service to his community.
While he was dedicated to his work, his family was his central focus. He was the beloved husband of Rosemary and a supportive, loving father to his seven children: Jason (Tamiko), Greg (Giselle), Bryan (Natalia), Chris, Allyson (Martin), Robyn (Mark), and Sarah (Andre). He was the proud grandfather of Ethan, Myles, Meryn, Jack, Sydney, Ella, Taylor, Cullen, Abby, Griffin, Bennett, and Eleanora, a dear brother to Diane (John) and uncle to Matt, Ian, and Cameron. His loved ones will always remember his steady presence, his quiet strength, his sound investment advice, and his wonderfully dry sense of humour.
His favourite place to be was his property in Niagara-on-the-Lake. He found great peace and satisfaction in the quiet, honest work of tending to his gardens, enjoying the company of his dog, Barney, and the occasional, pleasant surprise of finding a long-lost garden tool.
He is predeceased by his father, Jack, and his mother, Audrey.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Qawi for all her dedicated efforts. They also wish to thank the doctors and nurses at Marotta Family Hospital for their compassionate care.
He leaves behind a legacy of quiet kindness and a family who loved him dearly.
A celebration of life will be held Thursday, July 23 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery at 1366 York Rd., in St. Davids.
Donations: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Niagara Health Foundation/Walker Family Cancer Centre or Humane Society of Greater Niagara
