Major Alan Donaldson was a much-loved family man and a well-known figure in charitable circles in Eden through his work with the Salvation Army in Penrith.
Alan Donaldson was born in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear and was brought up in Millfield, Sunderland. His parents were Charles and Lillian Donaldson.
He lived with his parents and siblings in Sunderland until he married wife Carole in May 1985 where they lived in Birtley, Chester-le-Street in County Durham until moving to the Salvation Army’s training college in London, the William Booth College. This was in 2000 and where they commenced their minister training.
Following ordination and commissioning in May 2002 they were appointed to Hanley Stoke on Trent until 2007 and then 2007 to 2015 in Worcester, 2015 to 2017 in Chester and then 2017 onwards in Penrith.
As joint leader of the Salvation Army in Penrith Alan was well known for his work supporting the local community, including with the Salvation Army Penrith food bank which saw demand for its service soar during the Covid pandemic.
Alan began his working life as a fabricator welder at Sunderland shipyards until redundancy, after which he worked for Stannah Stairlifts until 2000 before moving to the Salvation Army’s training college in London.
Alan enjoyed fishing and found this to be a beautiful way to spend time with God, connect with nature and support his son, Matthew.
He played in the Salvation Army brass band and sang in the Songsters choir. Alan also enjoyed holidays with his wife and children and was a people person. He loved God, serving as called and appointed by the Salvation Army.
A dearly loved husband of Carole, father and family man, Alan is survived by his wife and their three children, Michaela, Matthew and Jessica.
Alan, of Penrith, died peacefully at home, aged 64.
A funeral service was held at Eden Valley Crematorium on Wednesday. Funeral arrangements were by Walkers Funeral Directors, Penrith.
