WILLIAMS, Donald Hosking (Don):
Passed peacefully in Queenstown on 2 February 2026, in his 77th year, surrounded by his loved ones, after a short and brave battle with cancer.
Cherished Dad to Kiersten, Marjon, and Greg; dearly loved Father-in-law to Andrew and Blenda, and precious Pop to Emily and Olivia; and proud Poppa Don to Benicio and Emilio. Beloved son of the late Joyce and Hugh, and brother to Alison, and the late Ian and Ailsa; and brother-in-law to Dawn.
A true gentleman adored by so many — ever kind, ever helping, and always giving back.
A service to celebrate Don's life will be held at Whitestone Funerals, 54 Weston Road, Oamaru, on Thursday 12 February at 2pm.
Messages to: PO Box 636, Queenstown 9348 or leave a message on Don's page.
Service details
Messages
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To all of you, Thinking of you at this sad time. Wish we could be there to give you all a hug and offer some comfort, but we’re there in spirit.
My sincere condolences to Don's family and his friends. Don's illness came rapidly and his passing must be such a sadness but also a relief that he isn't suffering now. He was surrounded by love and caring. I am sure he was proud and grateful for this. A time now to celebrate his life achievements with his family and his many adventures. RIP Don
We send our thoughts and love to you all at this sad time for the loss of your loved one, Don. Love from Plowmans and Colleen and Beverley, Gisborne.
Don, you were a true gentleman and I can see why you were treasured by those who loved you most, and why you will be so sadly missed. Your love for those close to you was beautiful to see. Thank you for your company, your smile and those bright, insightful eyes. It was a privilege to get to know you. Love to your family and friends, who I know will miss you dearly.
Don, thank you for your friendship, kindness, thoughtfulness & generosity since we met & for the many places we explored in the district. I'm so happy that you didn't linger - you'd have hated that. Many blessings to all your family.
Will be thinking of you all as you celebrate your dad’s life. Have been thinking about you all as you navigate this time. Lots of love to you all xx
Our heartfelt condolensences to all whanau friends and associates. Don, a man of many facets. We met in Dunedin North East Valley Days in the 1970s then again when you were convalescing post major surgery in Auckland while I was visiting on a work project..and thereafter most times we passed through Oamaru. Our shared interests in sailing and the blues and music in general held strong. and Procul Harum..of course. Your support for me through those years of multiple restructuring and while I was recuperating post chemo was most cherished and valued. You were always ready to support including travelling to the North Island to help turn Stingaree over and sailing her at Pauatahunui and sea trials. Plus assisting me when I picked up Lucretia at Waimate. Lest I mention the 3 day blues fest you, Di and I went to at Sky City.Always willing to be involved and a very good friend indeed. Kei te tangi tahi mātou me koutou. Arohanui
We were very sorry to hear of Dons passing and want to express our condolences to all his family, especially Kiersten, Marjon and Greg. We spent most time with Don and all of you when we lived in Dunedin and lived in one of the two flats in Don and Bev’s house. We later visited with Don on our many trips to and from Dunedin transporting our Alex and Chris to university. Don was always very hospitable and loved to share his many ideas on a multitude of topics, and his dreams, with us ( and others). We loved the exchanges and feel privileged to have known Don and his family.Thinking of you all and hope to catch up with everyone at some stage soonish. Virginia and Daryl.