We are broken hearted to announce the passing of Donald Charles McCarthy, affectionately known as the Big D, Captain Don, and The Admiral. Survived by his wife, Lutcya (his Dutch Treat) and his stepsons, Andrew and Stuart McCormick.
Also survived by his 3 children from a previous marriage, Linda (Robert) Laird, and their 3 children; Kelly (Tim) and great grandchildren, Jordyn and Kai; and Morgan and David Laird. His younger son, Kevin McCarthy and his 2 children, Kevin (Brittany) and Darcy McCarthy, and her spouse Iain, great granddaughter Savana, and oldest son Michael McCarthy. Also survived by his sister Catherine Bodington and her family in Ottawa and his brother Ken McCarthy and his family in Nova Scotia.
Don was born in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and was ever proud of his maritime background. He started his business career with Imperial Oil, then when he moved west, worked at Weldwood of Canada and MacMillan Bloedel.
Always up for a new challenge, in 1980, he started Corporate Couriers Ltd., with 2 vehicles growing the company to the most recognized and largest same day courier company in Vancouver. After 30 years he sold Corporate to follow his all time passion-boating.
Don had many other interests. He passionately loved music, particularly jazz. He played trumpet and drums and formed the Don Mac Quintet playing at various social events at night and weekends while working his daytime job.
He was a great photographer and dabbled in handwriting analysis. He kept himself informed by reading the newspapers from cover to cover and loved to get together with his group of friends on Tuesdays to see if they could solve the world’s problems.
Don developed his passion for boating while still a young boy going out with his grandfather, who was a fisherman.  He also served in the reserve navy in Nova Scotia and still used to agonize over how nervous he was having to play the Last Post.
He will be greatly missed by those of us who loved him and his many friends.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 2490 – 37 Avenue West, Vancouver. A Reception will follow on Saturday, November 1, 2014, between 1 and 3 at the Arbutus Club, 2001 Nanton Avenue, Vancouver.