Donald George Gerlinger

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald George Gerlinger - a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend – on the afternoon of May 15th, 2026.

Don was born on March 4th, 1955, to Joseph and Elizabeth Gerlinger of East Coulee, AB.  During his school years, in fact as an early as 9 years old, Don joined his older brother Joe in helping their father with his local shop.  The family remembers Don’s ability to drive and operate equipment at an early age and say that he was able to fix anything.  While Don may not have known at the time, this would be the kickstart to a lifelong career; beginning as Gerlinger & Sons, and eventually becoming what the community now knows as Gerlinger Bros.  Don and Joe worked side by side until his final day which amounted to over 50 years in the family business.

In 1991, while out with her girlfriends, Linda spotted Don from across the room and the two were introduced.  Linda felt an instant connection with Don and made it her purpose to call him until he agreed to meet again.  After a time together, Linda questioned Don on the idea of marriage and his response was vague.  Displeased by his reaction, Linda made it clear to Don that she would be packing up and heading back to Saskatoon if he were not interested in moving forward.  Don’s next move was to the point, and with one call, he simply shared that he couldn’t let her leave.  The two eloped soon thereafter and were married in Lethbridge, AB, on February 3rd, 1996.  Linda was the love of Don’s life, and he was hers.  The couple began life in a house built by Don on his late grandparent’s land in East Coulee.  Through visions of their own, and hours of hard work, Don and Linda created their forever home on this same riverside property and would reside there together until the very end.   

Don was a pillar in his community.  His love for East Coulee, the history and residents, drove him to fight for more on behalf of those who lived there.  His kind and generous spirit made him someone to be counted on, and he answered the calls of those around him when there were needs to be met.  Don also served as a volunteer fire fighter and, weeks before his passing, received his ‘50 Years of Service’ plaque.

Don was predeceased by his grandparents; his father, Joe Gerlinger; his mother, Elizabeth Gerlinger; his sister, Betty Gerlinger; his sister-in-law, Michelle Gerlinger; his brother in law, Reg Greve and brother-in-law Brian Mackintosh.

Don is survived by his wife of 30 years, Linda Gerlinger; brothers Richard ‘Joe’ Gerlinger; Pete (Glenda) Gerlinger; and Jim (Debbie) Gerlinger. Don is lovingly remembered by several nieces and nephews:  Jeff (Jamie) Gerlinger, Jaimie (Chris) Morgan, Graham McLachlan, Erin (Travis) McLachlan, Jodie (Kyle) Larson-Pendock, Joel (Cassidy) Gerlinger, Jared Gerlinger, Kyle Gerlinger, and Shelby (Matt) Bolin.  As well, Don was a great uncle to Ashely, Alivia, Rena, Weston, Walker, Cohen, Sienna, Halle, and Sophie. Don is also survived by Linda’s children and their families:  Steve Sedgwick (Mary Lou), with their children Kalen & Jennica; and Rob Sedgwick with his children Dawson & Ruth; along with Linda’s extended family. Last, but far from least, Don will be forever missed by his precious four-legged companion, Riley, who brought so much joy and companionship to Don over these past five years, and who is so very loved by many.

The family would like to thank the community for the outpouring of support we have felt since this devastating loss.  We would also like to thank the first responders and STARS air ambulance who attended to Don that afternoon. 

Don had a love for animals that would be evident by anyone who knew him.  To honor him, we ask that any donations made in Don’s memory be given to the Drumheller and District Humane Society.

Please join us at the Drumheller Community Facility on June 13th at 1 pm as we celebrate the life of Don through laughter and tears with family and friends. 

*A cash bar will be available with all proceeds directly supporting the Drumheller Humane Society.