Don Malcolm: A Legacy of Caring That Will Last for Generations

Don Malcolm grew up a proud North Ender who believed in looking out for others – just like so many caring people in our community. Raised on Chesley Street, Don spent his career with NBTel and carried those strong neighbourhood values with him throughout his life. Doreen later made Saint John her home, working at the old Saint John General Hospital and pouring her heart into caring for patients and teaching young nurses who would one day care for families across our province.

They lived modestly, loved the outdoors, and shared a deep commitment to community and the people around them. It was this love for their community, along with a deep appreciation for the hospital teams who serve our region, that led Don and Doreen to begin giving each year to the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation.

Over time, their quiet generosity grew into the establishment of the Donald C. and Doreen V. (Murphy) Malcolm Endowment. Setting up an endowment meant that gifts directed to this fund were invested by the Foundation in perpetuity, with the investment income being used to support the areas of care that mattered most to Don and Doreen. In their case, supporting nurse training – in honour of Doreen’s vocation – and advancing cardiac care close to home.

“I like the idea that only a percentage is used,” Don says. “It means the fund will keep helping people, long into the future.”

Their commitment to cardiac care was personal. Don underwent a five way heart bypass at 65, and both families had strong histories of heart disease. They knew how vital excellent care is and how much it matters to the people who rely on it.

After Doreen passed in 2017, Don decided to include the Foundation in his will, with his estate gift being directed to his endowed fund. He takes comfort in knowing his passion for philanthropy – something he built together with Doreen during their life together – will continue to help people for generations.

Since the establishment of their endowed fund, through their generosity both during and after Doreen’s lifetime, Don is pleased to know that its investment income is being used to support hospital projects that matter to him.

“We never expected it to be worth anything,” he laughs. “I hope it helps a lot of people.”