By R. Paul Dhillon

There are people you meet who become an indelible part of your life. My friend, my brother Don Fiorvento was one of those guys. It is with great sadness and grief that I announce the passing of Don recently at Lions Gate hospital. 

Don had his struggles over the last few years but he had made great comeback and returned to his job at ICBC - he was the Crown Corporation’s lawyer. In a dramatic career move just over a decade ago, Don left journalism to pursue Law and became a lawyer. 

I first met Don a long time ago during our university days at Simon Fraser University. We both graduated from SFU in Communications (I also studied film up there) and became journalists. Our mutual love for film would continue growing our friendship. Don appeared in my first big production Planet Aaj showcase for Vancouver Television (VTV) now CTV Vancouver. He acted in a number of my productions including my latest feature The Fusion Generation, on which he was also an Associate Producer. 

Don loved his life and loved to travel and wherever he went - he went looking for a party. He had a large circle of local friends but he made friends all over the world because there was no one friendlier than Don. He took the time get to know his friends and get involved in their lives in meaningful ways. 

I cherished my times with my buddy on the local party circuit including BMW Galas and every other kind of party. We did a fair amount of travelling together including our latest to the American Film Market in November and Whistler Film Festival in December. 

Don was in the prime of his life but life can be cruel to those who love it too much and this is the true tragedy of Don’s passing as he was taken far too early. Life truly is short and sometimes it’s over while you’re still trying to dig yourself out from under it. Living life to the full is worth it but not when the quality of life drags you to the gutter.

Don would make fun digital art for his friends - this one he made for me. 

 I want to remember my friend for the good times we had together! The very last party we took in together was a Boat Party in the middle of winter but Don got jiggy with it. That’s how I want to remember him. 

Until we meet again Paisano - thanks for the Memories!