It is with great sorrow and disbelief that we share the sudden passing of Douglas Taylor on October 13th. Doug’s departure has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 50 years, Wendy, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and travel. Doug is survived by his daughters Laura (Mike) and Heather (Kristian), his cherished grandchildren Emily, Andrew, Hailey, and Brooklyn, his sister Helen (Colin), brother Don (Lesley), and many nieces and nephews.
Doug was the kind of dad and grandfather who never missed a ball game, hockey match, or dance recital. His presence, warm encouragement, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born in Mission, BC to naval parents Bob and Marguerite, Doug’s early years were spent moving across Canada before settling in Esquimalt, where he graduated from Esquimalt High. He earned a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Victoria and dedicated his career to the Pacific Forestry Centre in Victoria. Ever curious and committed to learning, he later completed a Biochemistry degree while working full-time, eventually retiring in 2003.
Doug and Wendy embraced retirement with a spirit of adventure, traveling the world together: Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, Africa, often weaving Doug’s love of history into their journeys. He found meaning in visiting the battlefields of France and tracing the stories of long-lost relatives.
Throughout his life, Doug gave generously of his time and talents. He served as a Sub-Lieutenant in the Naval Reserves, played hockey and tennis, coached his daughters in softball, and skied many winters at their Mt. Baker cabin. In recent years, he found peace in daily bike rides, attending lectures, tending his garden, and mastering the art of baking.
Doug was a man of quiet strength and gentle wisdom. He could fix anything, and he did, without hesitation, for anyone who asked for his help. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and they loved him deeply in return. His absence is immeasurable. His memory will be held close by all who were lucky enough to call him family or friend.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00=4:00p.m. on November 27th, 2025, in the Sequoia Center at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC V8Y 1B4.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC. Donations can be made online at www.heartandstroke.ca
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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13 Responses
Dear Laura, Heather and family,
What a shock to hear of Doug’s passing, I had been for lunch with him only a couple of months ago! Doug was one of the first people I met when I started at the Pacific Forestry Centre, welcoming me into the coffee group that met in the seed lab. He encouraged me to become involved in the Union, leading to decades on the executive. I played ball with him on the Deadwoods and we ended up working in the same field and would often share ideas.
I have many fine memories of him and will miss him at lunch.
My condolences to you and your families
My condolences to Doug’s friends and family. While I only worked at PFC a couple years before he retired he made an impression and I know he will be deeply missed.
Dear Laura and Heather,
I wanted to extend my sincere condolences to you and your families upon learning of Doug’s passing. I was fortunate to have worked with Doug at the Pacific Forestry Center for many years. His mentorship, kindness and generosity with his time and knowledge meant a great deal to me and encouraged me to continue on in this career path. He always had interesting stories to tell and I will always remember him with a bright smile. I am so sorry for your loss and Wish you comfort during this difficult time.