May 4, 1928 – October 23, 2021

It is with deep sadness we announce that Doug began his next journey on October 23rd at the age of 93 and as always, on his own terms. He was full of gratitude for his long healthy life, his family and friends.

Doug is survived by Bea, his best friend and loving wife of 68 years, his son Bob (Mirella), daughter Sandra Taylor (Gary), grandchildren Reid, Blake (Della), Spencer (Alysha), Marina and many nieces and nephews in Canada and England.

Doug was born in Rosetown and raised in Smiley Saskatchewan. He was the youngest of five children. Growing up on the prairies during the 30’s and early 40’s was challenging, but it made him who he was – hard working, inventive and caring.

As a young boy he kept busy with hockey, baseball, curling and work. The communication business was in his life from an early age as his mother was the town’s telephone operator. During WW II, at the age of 14, he was granted a special drivers license that enabled him to go to work for the local Telephone Company – this was the beginning of a long career in the industry.

In 1947, he followed his brother to Vancouver and joined BC Tel (Telus). Subsequently, in 1964 he transferred to Kamloops as an I&R Supervisor where he worked until he retired in 1984. He was a true telephone pioneer.

Sports and horses played a big role in Doug’s life. He was a player, coach, spectator, volunteer and builder. In the early 1960’s, he helped organize the building of the Killarney Community Centre in Vancouver where he then coached hockey.

When he moved to Kamloops he became an active member in the Kamloops Curling Club as a player, coach and volunteer. For many years his and Sandra’s love of horses ( they had a few) found him volunteering with the Pine Tree Riding Club. After retirement he continued this passion as a volunteer at the KXA horse racing venue.

Doug met Bea in 1948 at the White Rose Ballroom in Vancouver and they were married in 1953. Over the years Doug and Bea enjoyed the Shuswap and Okanagan lakes, fishing and camping throughout B.C. and in their retirement traveling to Arizona for winter holidays. Everywhere they went they made many lifelong friendships.

What will we remember most about Doug? He was a tireless worker. A lunch break meant you had 5 minutes because “you don’t get anything done standing around”. He was also an avid story teller. We always enjoyed his stories of growing up with three brothers and a sister in a small prairie town.

Dad was always there when needed. He fixed whatever was broken, coached his kids in all the things they loved and lent a hand to anyone who would ask. Doug will be missed by his family and friends, fond memories of the many good times will long be remembered.

Due to COVID restrictions, a private family service will be held at Hillside Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

“Tight lines and straight shooting”

You may offer condolences at Schoening Funeral Service.

• Date : 2021-10-23
• Location : Kamloops