Obituary of Robert Frederick Donald Royal

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of R.F. Donald Royal on June 26, 2023, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Anybody who knew Donald knows that he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather amongst the many other hats that he wore throughout his 81 years of life.

R.F. Donald is survived by his loving wife Heather Royal, his son Michael Royal (Susan), his daughter Monica Royal (Tausha), his stepson Bryan Lockhart, his stepdaughter Katherine Shannon (Chris), his grandchildren Samuel, Jordan, Benjamin, Victoria, Olivia, and Kate, his great-granddaughters Reagan and Piper, his sister Barbara Keal (Craig), and his many friends. Donald is predeceased by his mother Edith Royal and his father Robert Royal.

Don was a Dean’s List graduate in 1965 from Queen’s University and had a long career with JD Irving as the Vice President of Irving Pulp and Paper Operations, until he left the company in 1993 to pursue other adventures. Anyone who knows Don knows he loved golf, spending time with his family and friends and could often be found teeing off at Riverside Country club, where he was the President from 1996-1997.

Donald also devoted many years of his life to the Loch Lomond Villa and was the Chairman of the Board for a period of time as well as Chairman of the Board for Saint John Energy. He enjoyed volunteering his time and supporting various sports.

The family will be holding a celebration of life on Thursday, June 29, 2023, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at the Riverside Country Club.  Please join the family and bring a funny story to celebrate Don's memory.

For those who wish, donations in memory of Donald may be made to the Saint John Regional Hospital or Loch Lomond Villa. Online condolences may be shared at www.brenansfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424).