Nov. 1, 1925 - Sept 12, 2005 It is with great sorrow that the family of Donald "Don" Michael Grashey announce his passing on September 12, 2005. Over the course of five decades Don made significant contributions to the country music industry, opening the door for many Canadian artists at a time when opportunities were limited. He made significant inroads as a songwriter, mentor, manager, producer, and song publisher in Canada and United States. His discoveries include such stars as Loretta Lynn, Myrna Lorrie, Carroll Baker and Jerry Palmer. He owned and operated DMG Sound Studios on Cumberland St. for over 30 years, and was known as a paternal figure for up-coming country singers. Artists recorded and produced by him include Loretta Lynn, Carroll Baker, Myrna Lorrie, Buddy De Val, Orella Myers, White Knights, Tomorrows Keepsake, Checkerlads, 49th Parallel, Del Rondo, Noblemen, Dewline, Merriday Park, Souls of Inspyration, The Jarvis Street Revue, Tony White, Sandi Shore, The Plague, Walkin Ben Kerr, Lance Younger, George Carone, NRG, Jerry Palmer, John Winters, Heather Haig, Frank Jones, Kevin Wara, StoneRidge, Carol Martyn, Boone and the Girls, Cindi Cain, Michael and Marnie, Lyn McEachern, The Tree Tops, The Dudes, Joseph Mauro, and Grace Miller. Don was a prolific songwriter exhibited by his many BMI PRO Canada Awards spanning 1955-1984. Artists such as Jim Reeves, Ernest Tubb, Red Sovine, Myrna Lorrie, Carroll Baker, and Jerry Palmer recorded his vast repertoire of songs. His legacy of awards attributed to his talent, endless dedication, hard work, and belief in Canadian country music include CCMA Awards, RPM Big Country Awards, Juno Awards, Gold and Platinum Awards for single recordings and albums. He produced twenty #1 records, and 39 top ten records. In 1980 he was inducted into the RPM Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame (Toronto, Ontario). In 1989 he accrued subsequent inductions into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame (Calgary, Alberta), and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour (Edmonton, Alberta). In 1995 Don's autobiography, My Rambling Heart was co-written with Joseph Mauro. His trail blazing on behalf of Canadian country music will be recognized for years to come. Don was a loving son and brother, a kind friend, a mentor to many, and a gentle soul who's passionate love for music will never be extinguished. He will be especially missed by special friends Joe Scali, Barry Haugen, John Winters, George Petralia, and Heather Haig, His flame will always burn bright for those who had the honor to be a part of his life and legacy. Heaven is truly enriched by his presence. He is survived by sisters Rose, Millie, Doris (all of Thunder Bay), Eleanor (Charles) Pothier (Yarmouth, N.S.), Rita (Bob) Goodall (Scarborough, Ont.), and Mary (Ken) Goddard (Oshawa, Ont.), nephews David Birch, Chris (Roz) Goddard, Kevin (Mary) Goddard, five grand nephews, and godchild Joseph Petralia. Don was predeceased by his father Luigi Guarasci (1978), and his mother Theresa Soda (1987). Funeral services for the late Mr. Don Grashey will be held on Friday, September 16, 2005 with family and friends gathering at St. Andrew's R.C. Church for the Funeral Mass at 10:00 A M celebrated by Father Peter Groulx. Interment will follow in the Family Plot, St. Andrew's Cemetery. Visitation for friends will be held on Thursday evening from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at the Church, with the Vigil Prayers offered at 8:00 PM. Should friends so desire, donations to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley St. at Algoma in care of arrangements.