It is with indescribable sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of William Robin Harlow Douglas (Bill) on September 8, 2019, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, 1-month shy of his 75th birthday. Bill leaves his wife Melanie, daughter Samantha (Jarrod), son Ben (Becci) and his four grandchildren, Ava, Evyn, Rachael and Ollie.
We cannot convey the enormity of the empty space he has left behind. His integrity, trust, respect, and love were the cornerstones of our family. He had a quiet but expansive heart and always a wide-open mind. He was one of a kind, an exemplary, gentle, smart, caring man who loved well and was well-loved. Bill dedicated his working life to public service, from representing his much-loved local community of Willis Point to his work in Emergency Operation Management with the World Health Organization.
There will be no formal service at this time.
In lieu of flowers, Bill’s family would greatly appreciate contributions to the Willis Point Volunteer Fire Department (WPVFD), 6933 Willis Point Rd. Victoria, BC V9E 2A1.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
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24 Responses
Melanie. Sherrie and I were so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I have very fond memories of my opportunity to work with Bill in the Emergency Management field, and of his thoughtful, insightful contribution to the field and kind support to his colleagues. His contributions were significant, and our world is a better place because of his presence. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bill truly had a beautiful mind. The impact of his work in health emergency management will live on for decades. Many of us will cherish the memories of not just the work together but the moments of sharing a glass of good scotch and pontificating after pulling off what we referred to as our suicide missions. Oh, the great moments we shared. I cannot say how much he will be missed.
Melanie, thanks for sharing Bill with us. His passion & thoughtfulness in mentoring and his thoroughness in his work will all be missed. I don’t have enough words to express the loss.
Oh Melanie, my heart aches for you and your family. There are no words that can comfort you now, but my hope for you is that the outpouring of love and memories from those who knew and loved the wonderful man Bill was will bring you some solace in the days ahead. With loving thoughts and prayers, Mary
Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Melanie and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss Bill.
Hugs,
Ray and Delia
Melanie and family – my heart is so sad and I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss.
Melanie: Watching you and Bill together was like watching a professional dance couple. The way you two held each other, even without touching, your witty banter, your core-feeling friendship – like dancers you just seemed to know where the other person was, knew what the other person needed and would be exactly where the other person was. I always watched you both with such joy.
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.
We are very saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. He was a caring and intelligent person and we enjoyed his company. Our thoughts are with you and family.
Our sincere sympathy to Melanie and all of the family. We are thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
Dear Melanie and family
Bill was an exceptional person in so many ways. it was a pleasure to know him and call him our friend. We are deeply saddened by his death, and send you our love. You are all in our hearts and thoughts. Helen and Harvey
Our hearts are with you and your family. Sending so much love your way of a ton of hugs xoxo