Loving husband and proud father to three daughters, Douglas was born in Glasgow to Harry and Agnes Hodgkinson (Gunning). Douglas dedicated his life to music and education. He taught in Lewisporte, NL, and worked with the New Brunswick Ministry of Education, the BC Ministries of Education and Advanced Education, the Council of Ministries of Education Canada, and the Canadian Council on Learning. A gifted musician, Douglas began as a church organist at age 13. His positions included Christ Church Cathedral in Fredericton, St. Aidan’s and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian in Victoria as well as interim organist at Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria.
Douglas was a life-long learner with many passions ranging from music, art and photography, to science, cars, and astronomy. He was known for his knowledge, quick wit, generosity, and kindness.
Douglas is survived by his wife Amanda; his daughters Beth (Bill), Leslie (Aaron), and Isla (Steve); his grandchildren Finley, Rowan, Lynnia, Hunter, Alora, and Koa; and his sister Susan (Norman). No service planned. Our thanks to the caring staff of St. Charles Manor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Victoria Symphony.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
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22 Responses
Jennifer and I were saddened to hear of Douglas’s death. We were at school with him in the 60s and afterwards I was at Glasgow University at the same time as him. We were close friends as we shared similar interests. Although, unlike Douglas, I have no musical talent, I like classical music and enjoyed going to concerts with him in the City Halls. I also remember making an open reel recording of him playing the church organ. After he left for Newfoundland, we corresponded for a while, although it wound down over the years. He did turn up on our doorstep every few years when we would talk and listen to music into the night. I shall miss that, and am grateful for and mindful of the influence his friendship had on my life. Douglas also played French Horn, so I shall listen to some Flanders and Swann, and perhaps Dennis Brain playing Mozart, which I remember being favorites of his, while I remember a happier time. From the messages above, Douglas certainly made full and joyful use of his biblical three score years and ten.
Our sincere condolences to his family. Think only of the good times
Alex and Jennifer Paterson
Dear Amanda and family,
I was saddened to hear of Douglas’s passing and being aware of his deteriorating health, you
were in my prayers.
I knew him through St.Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and the Gaelic Choir.
I was born in Greenock and we had many stories to share about the Clyde and ” Doon the watter”
My sincere sympathy and much understanding in your loss of a caring and very talented man.
Joyce Nordwall
Dear Amanda and family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of Douglas. I knew him as the conductor of the Gaelic Choir, leading us on many engagements and the ambitious trips to Scotland to compete in the Royal National Mod – with spectacular success in Oban! Personally I got to know him better on our many walks when he was recovering from surgery.A lovely man.
Josephine Hoskins
Dear Amanda and Family. Dorothy and I are very saddened by this news. Douglas, our friend, was as gifted a musician as any and loved his choirs and the music of the church. But beyond that he was full of wit and had a passion for many aspects of life outside of his chosen professions. We will miss him as will our Church communities and those that worked with him.
Dorothy and Jack Reimer
Dear Amanda,
I very sorry for your loss. With my warmest condolences, I am sending thoughts of peace and courage to you and your family.
Tamara
Dear Amanda,
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your daughters and family through this difficult time. May your many fond memories of Douglas give you strength and comfort.
My condolences,
Chris
I was taken by surprise on reading of Doug’s passing and am saddened to know he’s gone. He and I met when we worked together in ministry at St. Aidan’s United Church. Doug was an excellent musician, a wonderful raconteur, intelligent, insightful and above all, a good friend. I am richer for having known him. Please accept my condolences as you mourn his death and celebrate his life.
Dear Amanada and family,
We were so sorry to hear that Douglas has died. We are holding you all in our prayers and sending love and hugs to you.
Douglas was a very special person. We are so very sorry for your loss. Kate and Rob xxx
Beth,Leslie,Isla:
John and I (Yvonne) Sutherland would like to convey our sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad.
We met your Dad and Mom the day after they arrived in Lewisporte, NL. where your Dad would be taking up a position as Music Teacher at Lewisporte Elementary School.As I taught there I was able to give him some insight into the school set up and John being from Scotland was eager to meet up with another Scotsman!! From there a friendship began until your parents left NL. We shared many get togethers and some lively, interesting conversations with your Dad.
Your Dad did visit with us once several years ago when he was in NL on business.However we never had the opportunity to connect with him again but often spoke of him and wondered where he was located and what he was doing.It came as a shock when we learned of his death through our son’s neighbor, Charlotte Strong.
Reading your Dad’s obituary we can tell he had many accomplishments in his life, worked very hard and enjoyed his hobbies and family. His was an amazing life for sure. However a life cut short too soon .He has certainly left you all with many memories which will sustain you through this difficult time.
Yvonne
I have good memories of our days at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. I was the soprano soloist there for a number of years, and Douglas was a kind, encouraging, and honest colleague.