Douglas Lunam died peacefully at home July 25, 2023, surrounded by loved ones and buoyed by the well-wishes he received in his last weeks.
Doug had been experiencing the challenging losses that come with Alzheimer’s Disease, and was relieved to have the opportunity to die with medical assistance.
He was grateful to have had 77 years packed with adventure.
Doug felt lucky to have spent his early years in Comox BC with siblings John and Ann, where he had every opportunity to muck about in boats, to ski and to play tennis; his great love of the outdoors and his inclination to seek out new experiences were born there.
He graduated from Shawnigan Lake School and went on to earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering, UBC 1969. He often said that degree was the hardest thing he ever did.
Doug married Margaret that same year and they made their way to Calgary in a snowstorm to begin what would become a love affair with the mountains where they spent every opportunity either on skis or in hiking boots.
The 25 years in Calgary would be a time of great professional accomplishment, but more important to Doug was the beginning of a family and the growth of a wide circle of friends. From there, he orchestrated adventures in boats, chartering in places far-flung and on the west coast, he instigated a plan to form a community in Windermere that put the family in good range for skiing at Panorama and he gathered family and friends to accompany him on these excursions. He was always the guy to get things rolling.
The west coast was always beckoning and in 1994, Doug and Margaret returned to Victoria where Doug embarked on a whole new career as an Investment Advisor. What Doug loved most about that work was the opportunity to meet people and to help them learn about finances; relationships were always paramount for Doug. The boat he had in those years allowed him to share his love of being on the water; he invited anyone who had any interest to join him; it was a magical time.
Doug was a strong and loving partner for Margaret, a proud Dad to Charene and Janna (Jef), a devoted Grandpa to Kennedy, Molly, Isaac, Kaitlin, Carter, Riley and Piper and an enthusiastic petter of Granddogs Kallie and Ocho. His family will remember his generosity, enthusiasm, and love for them.
Service was a core value for Doug and he will be remembered as an appreciated member of his community, of Victoria Downtown Y, of James Bay United Church, and of the Harbourside Rotary Club.
We learned from Doug that:
If you are invited on an adventure, say yes.
When you meet someone new, take time to hear their story.
Never pass up an opportunity to have ice cream.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Doug’s life will be held in the Sequoia Centre, at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 3:00 pm.
If you wish to honour Doug’s memory, donations could be made to:
Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP)
Harbourside Rotary Club https://www.harboursiderotary.org
Or: James Bay United Church https://www.jamesbayunited.com
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
18 Responses
So many wonderful memories across a freindship of over 50 years with Doug — shared times as families; skiing; hiking; canoeing; cycling; parties; even hanging wallpaper!
Even as Doug was cruelly compromised by Alzheimers, his positivity, initiative and courage shone through and serve as an inspiration.
My love and heartfelt condolences to Marg, Charene and Janna.
I’d known Marg and Doug from the years I was working at St. Aidan’s and then was happily re-connected with them through the JBUC Thrift Shop. I was so fortunate to share a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos in 2016. A memorable time for so many reasons, but one that is foremost is the ease and grace of their connection with every person they met. A passing conversation became a sincere interaction – not meaningless small talk – but an interest in the life and experience of that person. Doug carried on a conversation with people even when English was not an easy language, and it was clear that his interest was genuine and a lasting impression was made. Doug exemplified that gift of connection at the JBUC Thrift Shop – he was a perfect sales person and his welcoming smile was emblematic of his interest in every shopper. I miss helping him tie up his cash apron – there was always a hug and a smile when it was done. I am so grateful for the friendship we shared. We will all miss him deeply, but remember him so dearly.
Marg, Charlene, Janna and family,
We are so sad to hear that Doug has left us. But in Doug-like fashion, he chose to do it his way!
We will remember his wit, his laughter, his positivity. We thank him for including us in the Windermere venture, which brought us so much joy.
He was such a great guy and we will truly miss him.
Bill Darlene and Sonia Hrynchyshyn
Marg, Charene and Janna,
So many wonderful memories that we shared with Janna growing up alongside Rachel, being such a great friend with super parents. Doug was always so welcoming and I fondly remember his love of the water and boating. No matter what he was involved with it was always with an open heart.
Sending my love and support,
Marilyn Shannon
My condolences. Doug was easy to befriend. Common sense and a big heart. His leadership in the congregation will not be forgotten.
Marg, Charene and Janna, I Will be with you in spirit on Saturday as you celebrate the amazing life of Doug…unfortunately any travel is limited by my mobility issues.
I am grateful that the service will be online. I shall be with you in that way,
Spending much love to all your family and feeling my appreciation of Doug.
Love, always, Marnie
Our condolences to you Marg, Charene& Jenna and family from Vern, Donna, Devin, Perry & Kyle. We all have fond memories of times together at Windemere & kids together at French Immersion school.
Doug was always so happy, positive and fun-loving. Boys remember the pancakes he prepared and served on cabin weekends. Many, many wonderful memories of times together.
Hopefully happy memories will help you get through this difficult time.
Rest in peace , Doug.
Marg and family,
I was very sorry to hear of Doug’s diagnoses. I am sure it was a trying and devastating time for everyone. May all the wonderful memories you have help you through the difficult times.
I have so many positive memories of our days at Windermere. Doug orchestrated the whole set-up and we had so many fun times there whether it was the work weekends, the potluck dinners or the wine!! It was years of wonderful family time and our children really enjoyed being there.
Doug had great passion for the many things he did and lived his life to the fullest! May he rest in peace.
Carol Watson
Calgary