Remembering Don Lafontaine

Dr. Don Lafontaine, our dear friend and wonderful neighbour of 89 Burnbank Street, passed away on November 20, 2025. Don was an active member of the Glens community who was always helping neighbours. He served on the board of the Glens Community Association for several years, often hosting meetings in their home. When there was a gypsy moth outbreak in the neighbourhood Don, as a world expert on butterflies and moths, was there to detect and help the community.  Don lived in the Glens for 43 years and loved this community and its people. Don is survived by his loving wife Herma, two loving daughters, Julie and Heather, and three grandchildren. Read below for more details on Don's amazing life and his major contributions to science.

For several years, with Don Konrad from Burnbank Street, he was part of Glens unofficial Greenbelt Patrol, making sure that there were no fires or other damage to the environment from teens and others who held bush parties in Pinhey Forest. Here is the little known story of how Don saved many of the trees in the Pinhey Forest south of Slack Road. On one occasion about 30 years ago while patrolling the forest, Don noticed that many of the birch and other deciduous trees and trees with double crowns were marked with paint, indicating they were to be cut down. He immediately contacted the NCC, told them he was an expert biologist and scientist from Agriculture Canada, and politely asked them explain what was happening. The NCC officials said they had contracted with a timber company to select and remove certain trees for the “overall health of the forest.” 

Don then arranged a meeting with the NCC and the timber company officials in Pinhey Forest. As they walked around the forest, Don pointed to each marked tree and asked the timber officials why they had marked that tree to be removed. Their response was that this birch or deciduous tree was not the prime species in the planted red pine forest, and that each tree with a double crown was more likely to fall and cause damage. They were selecting trees in a way to maximize lumber profits from a forest, not viewing it as an urban greenbelt park. Don countered by explaining that the diversity of trees was better for the diversity of wildlife and flora in the forest and also for people’s enjoyment of the forest. Don also pointed out that double crowns provided more places for birds and squirrels to build homes and find shelter. Shortly after that, the NCC cancelled their contract with that forestry company and many trees were spared.

The family and some of Don’s friends in the Glens are looking into ways to honour and remember him with a park bench, or a butterfly-attracting tree planting, or a butterfly garden in Grenfell Glen Park. We may be asking neighbours to contribute ideas or funds towards this. Stay tuned for news about this.

James Donald “Don” Lafontaine of Ottawa, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend whose profound love for others was inspiring. His faith in Jesus guided every part of his life, and he shared that faith with sincerity and conviction. He brought many people to God and his family takes comfort in knowing he is now in Heaven, embraced by the One he trusted above all else.

He cared deeply for his family and expressed that love openly and generously. He is remembered for his kindness of spirit, his humility, his gentle wisdom and the way he made people feel valued.

A world-renowned scientist, he specialized in the study of moths and became a leading authority in his field. His research earned international respect and he received several distinguished honours, including the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal for his scientific contributions and the Karl Jordan Medal. He was also a gifted mentor who guided countless students, hobbyists and colleagues, many of whom went on to pursue scientific careers inspired by his example.

Service to others was at the heart of how he lived. He volunteered for 15 years at St. Vincent Hospital through Turning Point Christian Ministries, and other community organizations where his leadership and devotion made a meaningful difference.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years, Herma (née Wagter), his daughters Julie (Alan) and Heather (Dan), and his treasured granddaughters Erika, Natalie and Violet. Don was predeceased by his parents John and Muryn Lafontaine. He is also missed by his brother Stephen, his sister Jane, and predeceased by his brother-in-law and birding companion Monty, as well as his sister-in-law Lokke “Lois” (Jim), his brother-in-law Wolter, and his nine cherished nieces and nephews. He is also lovingly remembered by Roger, who has remained a valued part of the family for the last 30+ years.

He will be profoundly missed by all who loved him and by the many people whose lives were shaped by his wisdom, his faith and his unwavering kindness.

A very moving Celebration of Life was held on Friday, November 28, 2025  preceded by a visitation at Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Rd in Ottawa, Ontario.

Donations to Turning Point Christian Ministries would be appreciated. Donations can be made here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/turning-point-christian-ministries/

Much of this content was copied from his obituary at https://everloved.com/life-of/don-lafontaine/obituary