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CAR CARE: North Vancouver's Taylormotive celebrates 60 years

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Celebrating Don Taylors Life March 11, 1933 - February 11, 2013

Donald Charles Taylor 79, entered into the presence of The Lord Jesus on February 11, 2013 with his loving family by his side at the North Shore Hospice.

Don was born March 11, 1933 to Charles and Vera (Dawson) Taylor in Vancouver, BC. The eldest of 2 children, Don was dedicated to the Lord at 6th Ave Tabernacle at an early age, and attended and served the Lord at Broadway Church most of his life. Don attended Vancouver Technical School till 1948. In 1947, Don started his part time automotive career fixing and customizing cars at various service stations throughout Vancouver. In 1952, Don apprenticed at Fred Richmond Motors for 2 years, then went on to work at Duecks as a Journeyman Technician for another 4 years.

Don Married Diane (Smith) on February 11, 1955, and later designed and had their first house built in North Vancouver. In 1956, Don became President of the Kingsmen Car Club that grew to 65 Members. Divinely, on February 16, 1959, Don established Taylormotive Service Ltd. in North Vancouver. He asked his friends Barry Newton, Bob Crawford, and Hans Kretz to come work with him. From 1967-1968, Don, Diane & family relocated to Mara, BC with their friends, Jim & Ruth Metcalfe, and Cal & Jean Phoenix to help build a motel, and help operate Crystal Sands Resort. Then later, came back to North Vancouver continuing with Taylormotive. In 1970, Don established Taylormotive Honda Motorcycle Dealership to become BC’s largest Honda dealer until he closed its doors in 1977. Don continued to manage Taylormotive’s family business for 53 years, until July 2012 when he took ill due to a brain tumor.

Don took an interest in boating and toured extensively on our coastal waters. Don was able to travel throughout Europe, Japan, Italy, England, Scotland, Israel, the Caribbean, Mexico, and USA. In January 2000, Don became a member of International Coaches for Christ, then went on to become President of North West Coaches for Christ to start up chapters with rally's in the northwest. Don and Diane made many friends while traveling throughout Canada and the USA.

Don enjoyed many times together with family and friends, especially spending time with his Grandchildren and great Grandchildren, watching them grow and mature. Don and Diane also became adopted grandparents to Sarah, Ryly, Wesley and Carter. Don is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Diane, daughter Dawn-Marie (John), Grandson John Jacob, Son Charles (Melodie), Grand Daughter Nicole (Brian), Great Grand Daughter Jayde, Grand Daughter Candice (Simon), Great Grand Daughter Rachel, Great Grandson Owen. Don was Predeceased by his Father, Mother and Son Rodney, survived by (Chantal) Grandson Ethan, Grand Daughter Carmen, Sister in-law Elaine (Mel), Niece Wendy and Nephew Wayne, Brother in-law Jon (Jackie), Nephew Jake, and Jordan, Niece Erin, Sister Maureen (Chuck) and family, Brother Ray (Wanda), Nephew Charles, Niece Vera-Ann and Family.

A special thank you to Dr. Jenny Shaw and Dr. Jennifer Walker, and all the Doctors and caregivers at Lionsgate Hospital and the North Shore Hospice.