January 14, 2022

Our Foundation was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Don Fell on January 7. Don was best known as the founder of FELLFAB, a local company he started at the age of 15 making tarpaulins for trucks, that grew to become the largest manufacturer of aircraft and rail interiors in North America.

Don brought his entrepreneurial spirit and sound business acumen to everything he did and used it to ensure his philanthropic investments would have maximum impact on the city and the community where he lived and worked.

Here at St. Joe’s, we feel fortunate to have counted Don amongst our most dedicated volunteers and steadfast supporters. He served on the Board of Directors of St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation from 2006 – 2015 and was co-chair of the Timeless Care, Tomorrow’s Discoveries campaign, helping to raise more than $87 million for our Hospital. It was the most successful fundraising effort in our history. In 2013, Don was honoured for his dedication to St. Joe’s with a Mission Legacy Award—it’s the highest honour bestowed by St. Joseph’s Health System. You can read more about Don and his life’s accomplishments by clicking here.

A treasured ambassador and benefactor to St. Joe’s for more than 20 years, Don had a particular fondness for research projects, mental health and supporting his favourite runners in the Around the Bay Road Race. Our sincere condolences go out to Don’s family, friends and colleagues as our Foundation and our community mourns alongside them. St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation is honoured to the beneficiary of donations made in Don’s  memory.