4221 Douglas Darryl Brown RRMC RMC 1958
BROWN, DOUGLAS DARRYL Douglas Darryl Brown (88) passed away peacefully, in his sleep on December 16, 2023, in Toronto, Ontario. Doug was born February 2, 1935, in London, Ontario, to William HC Brown and Hughena Phillips. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan; his three children, Darlene, Darryl (Charlene), and Denise (Vance); as well as his siblings, Connie, Carol (Paul), Bill, and Jim (Susan); his grandchildren, Emma (Pete), Cami, Seth, Tess (Stephen), Dawson, Taylor, and Lindsay; and his great-grandchildren, Caulder and Westen. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Hughena; and his siblings, Don (Thelma) and Bob. Doug enjoyed growing up in an active, sports-loving family with his six siblings. One of the highlights of his youth was scoring the winning touchdown in the Red Feather Tournament, the unofficial Ontario high school football championship. After graduating from high school in 1954, Doug went on to study civil engineering at Royal Roads and the Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, where he continued pursuing his love of sports by playing on the football, rugby, and basketball teams. After four years at Royal Roads and RMC, he transferred to the University of Toronto, where he completed his degree in 1959. While attending school in Toronto, his friends set him up on a blind date with a vivacious nursing student, Joan Christina Burnett. Since nursing students were not allowed to be married at that time, Joan and Doug eloped on July 27, 1960. After graduating, Doug was stationed for a short time in Chilliwack, BC, and then was reassigned to Germany, where he successfully devised methods to halve the time it took to rebuild bombed-out bridges. After his time in Germany, Doug returned to school to pursue an MBA at the University of Western Ontario in London, and graduated in 1964. Doug’s first job after graduation was with the Foundation Construction Company, where he rose to the position of Senior Vice President. During his tenure, he managed many construction projects, including the London Life building, the Place Ville Marie in Montreal, and, ultimately, the CN Tower in Toronto. During his employment, he was transferred many times, eventually ending his career with the company in Calgary. It was in Calgary that Doug became interested in the business of real estate. When he and Joan moved back to Toronto in 1987, Doug continued practicing real estate, owning and managing a Re/Max franchise and, in his later years, operating and working as a partner for an online brokerage. He continued to sell real estate and act as a broker until he retired at age 85. Doug loved learning, sports, and his family. He purchased a pocket calculator as soon as they were on the market, and he was always highly interested in new technology and learning new ideas. Doug was an avid downhill and cross-country skier, and often golfed every day in the week. He enjoyed travelling, especially trying out new, interesting golf courses. He and Joan were inseparable, even working together on real estate projects in their later years. Their greatest joy was spending time with their grandchildren. The family thanks everyone at the Fountainview Care Community for the wonderful care Doug received while there. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. There will be a Celebration of Life in Doug’s honour, on Sunday, February 11th, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 11 Thorncliffe Park Drive, Toronto.
10840 Bradley Hall CMR 1976
1954-2024
It is with deepest sorrow that we announce that Brad passed away at the Ottawa General Hospital on Wednesday, January 31st, surrounded by his loving family. He was 69 years old.
Brad leaves behind his loving wife of 47 years, Dianne (nee Hardy), as well as his adoring children, Ryan (Jennifer Thom) and Kelly (Keith Lax), and grandchildren (Abby and Hannah, Jake and Alex). He also leaves behind his mother, Margaret (Napier), and brother, Craig. He is predeceased by his father, Dal. Brad’s eventual internment will be in Alberton, PEI, alongside his loving in-laws, Wes and Betty Hardy.
Brad was in the Canadian Forces for 21 years: first as an Officer Cadet at CMR in St Jean, then as an Infantry Officer with 2 PPCLI in Winnipeg and Montreal, and then as an Intelligence Officer in various postings which included Cyprus, the Airborne in Petawawa, NATO in Germany, and the Oka Crisis. He retired as a Major in 1991.
Brad’s second career was with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, where he spent 20+ years helping the Commission to tend for the graves of Commonwealth soldiers who died during the two world wars. These soldiers died on battlefields throughout the world, but also during training, sickness, accidents or as a result of injuries. As such, this work took Brad on countless trips throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Although based mostly in Ottawa during this time, he and Dianne also spent two years living in England, where they travelled extensively for pleasure as well. Brad retired from the Commission in 2013.
Brad prioritized shared experiences in his life. Family vacations as well as later travel with Dianne brought him great joy. Recent highlights included a 3-week vacation to Disney World with Dianne, his children, their partners, and his grandchildren, as well as a multi-week trip with Dianne and their friends last year when they hiked the Amalfi Coast
in Italy.
Brad’s belief in living to the fullest was also evident in his day-to-day life, where he prioritized adventures with Dianne: kayaks, bikes, snowshoes, skates, cross-country skis or long walks. A lifelong fitness enthusiast, he loved jogging and working out, and his absence will be noted on paths throughout Katimavik.
A selfless volunteer, Brad coached many hockey teams during his children’s childhoods. At various times he and Dianne volunteered with the Kidney Foundation, the Kanata Seniors Centre and the Kanata Food Cupboard. Even more impactfully, he and Dianne have volunteered countless pro bono babysitting hours over the past 13 years for their grandchildren.
Brad will be remembered for his character, dry humour, and big heart. He will be forever missed.
Brad’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the amazing staff at the General, and particularly the caring people at 5 East. In lieu of flowers, Brad would have appreciated you making a donation to a charity near and dear to your heart, as he did with many throughout his life.
Funeral to be held at Kelly Funeral Home (580 Eagleson Road Kanata) on Saturday, February 17th at 1:00pm, followed immediately by a reception.
13861 Chris Deere RMC 1983
5027 Robert Douglas CMR RMC 1961
Robert A. Douglas passed away peacefully surrounded by love on January 21, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Health Centre at the age of 85.
Loving husband to Gail (nee Blahut), caring Father to Allison, Gillian, Rachel, and Erin (Matthew Sharp). Cherished Grandfather to Meaghan, Tristan, Breagh, Devon, Kellen, Myles, Olivia, Grant and Elysia. Great-Grandfather to Delaney and Estelle. Bob will be fondly remembered by many extended family and friends. Predeceased by his first wife Esther. Graduated from the Royal Military College in 1961 and began a long career in the navy retiring with the rank of Commander, turning to corporate management for the rest of his career. Bob had a true love for the outdoors, nature, and hiking, it brought great enjoyment to him and his family and was a big part of their lives.
Robert A. Douglas est décédé paisiblement entouré d’amour le 21 janvier 2024 au St. Joseph’s Health Centre à l’âge de 85 ans.
Époux aimant de Gail (née Blahut), père attentionné d’Allison, de Gillian, de Rachel et d’Erin (Matthew Sharp). Grand-père chéri de Meaghan, Tristan, Breagh, Devon, Kellen, Myles, Olivia, Grant et Elysia. Arrière-grand-père de Delaney et Estelle. Les membres de la famille élargie et les amis se souviendront de Bob avec affection. Sa première épouse, Esther, l’a précédé dans la tombe. Diplômé de college royale militaire en 1961, il a entamé une longue carrière dans la marine, où il a pris sa retraite avec le grade de commandant, avant de se tourner vers la gestion d’entreprise pour le reste de sa carrière. Bob avait un véritable amour pour le plein air, la nature et la randonnée, qui lui procurait beaucoup de plaisir, ainsi qu’à sa famille, et occupait une grande place dans leur vie.
6248 Hugh Gordon RRMC RMC 1965
GORDON, Dr. Hugh A. FCPA, FCA, LL.D. 1942 – 2024
Surrounded by the love of his family, Hugh died peacefully on February 4, 2024.
Predeceased by his parents, William Gilbert Gordon and Helen Hughena Gordon (nee McNairnay) and by his beloved sister, Jean; survived by his best friend and wife of 35 years, Lisa, daughters Victoria (Peter) and Allison (Andrew), stepdaughters Lori and Christy (Ian), grandchildren Brandon, Ava, Riza, Paige, Khonner and former wife Michelle. Also survived by his brother Glen, nephews Don (Marnie) and Scott and their families.
For us, Hugh seemed always slightly ahead of his time. He was the first born of his generation in the Gordon/McNairnay clan cousins so that feeling started early. He embraced new technologies throughout his life. For example, at age 9 he rigged up a buzzer system from the kitchen to his bedroom so he could be called when dinner was ready. In 1981 he purchased the first computer to be used in the KPMG Victoria office and wired it through the ceiling so it would print down the hall on his secretary’s typewriter. In 1987 he installed used car window controls to open and close venetian blinds in an east facing master bedroom. In 1999 he was an early purchaser of the new digital marine charts, installed a desktop computer under the driving station on the boat and mounted a separate monitor. He read about physics for fun. He epitomized life-long learning.
Hugh lived life large and with a joyful passion. Our first (and only) boat purchased with the Daniel family in 1986 was 42 feet. Multiple dinghies ensued. When the boat was sold in 2002, it was time to try a cottage in Nanoose. 10 years later it was RV’ing. After one season in a 13 foot trailer, a 42 foot motorhome was purchased forthwith. Then it was on to a second home in Mesa, then to Indian Wells. If you hadn’t seen Hugh for awhile, the conversation would invariably include the question “where are you living now?” Over the years Hugh and Lisa became known as serial real estate renovators of their many homes.
Hugh had such an abundance inside that he could not help but share with everyone. Clients, colleagues, friends and even total strangers! It was phenomenal how much he could talk. He was a natural leader and teacher and for fifteen years enjoyed being one of the three instructors at the Income Tax Practice course of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. His examples of ‘adventure in the nature of trade’ were never to be forgotten.
Hugh attended Royal Roads Military College as a cadet in the 1960’s. 35 years later he returned as the first member appointed by the government to the Board of Governors of the new Royal Roads University. He served the new university as Board Chair and Chancellor for the next eight years.
He graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Honours Economics and Commerce and attended the University of British Columbia as a graduate student in Economics. He served in the Canadian Army for 12 years including three years in Germany.
Upon leaving the military in 1971 Hugh articled with Thorne Riddell in Calgary and qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1974. Specializing in income tax, Hugh became a partner in 1978. He transferred to Victoria in 1979 and was the National Director of Taxation for Thorne Riddell from 1983 to 1985; Chairman of the National Tax Committee of Thorne Ernst & Whinney from 1986 to 1988; and, member of the National Tax Committee of KPMG Peat Marwick Thorne from 1988 to 1993.
Hugh presented papers on income taxation to the Annual Conference of the Canadian Tax Foundation on five occasions from 1981 to 1996.
During his career Hugh acted on behalf of clients and governments applying his abilities to a wide range of issues including as Assistant Chief Negotiator for British Columbia on the Nisga’a Treaty Settlement, reviewing governance on several large provincial projects, negotiation of the initial highways maintenance contracts, development of a fair market value stumpage regime, mining royalties, and he provided extensive consultation to British Columbia related to taxation statutes and tax incentives. From 2005 to 2015 Hugh was a consultant to the Federal Government on fiscal issues for First Nation Treaty negotiations and on funding of First Nation self-government.
Hugh was active in his community and over the years served on many boards including the Greater Victoria Economic Development Commission; Greater Victoria Arts Commission; University of Victoria; British Columbia Railway Company, BC Rail Ltd., and BCR Marine; Victoria Foundation; Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, BC and Yukon Division; Royal Roads University; British Columbia Wine Authority; British Columbia Safety Authority/Technical Safety BC; Irving K. Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society; and Victoria Hospice.
Hugh was recognized by his peers and admitted as a Fellow of the B.C. Institute of Chartered Accountants in 1995. In 2003 he was awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in honour of his service to the people of British Columbia and to the Victoria community. Also, in 2003 he was the recipient of the Doctor of Laws Degree, honoris causa from Royal Roads University.
His grandchildren describe him as loving, loyal, witty, supportive, generous, wise, an honourable gentleman but also lighthearted and mischievous, always enjoying their reactions to his antics. Hugh was so very proud of his blended family. He leaves an indelible mark on all of us. We thank him for our life together and we know what we have lost. He loved and was loved truly, madly, deeply.
A private family service will take place. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the
Hugh Gordon Leadership Scholarship at Royal Roads University,
www.royalroads.ca/hugh-gordon-leadership-scholarship
or to a charity close to your heart.
Condolences may be shared at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com.
6600 Douglas Busche RRMC RMC 1965
Douglas passed away in London, Ontario, on February 14, 2024, in his 81st year. Beloved husband of the late Bev Busche (2023). Loving father to Kristin Busche of London and Kevin Busche (Kirsty) of Calgary. Dear grandfather of Megan (Trevor), Lucas and Heath. Loving great-grandfather of Jax. Also missed by his brother Neil Busche (Joan) of Ottawa, Alan Busche (Jane) of Dorchester and sister Xandra Busche (Peter Cox) of Caledon.
In 1965, Doug graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada. Following his graduation, Doug embarked on a noble path as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force, serving proudly for a number of years. During those years, his fondest memories are of piloting all of the planes that now make up the “Snowbirds Air Team”.
Cremation has taken place, and no memorial service is planned at this time. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Doug may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
6910 Douglas Hamilton RMC 1966
HAMILTON, Douglas Robert Maj (Ret’d) CD, BEng, BS, MSME, PhD, PEng
Passed away peacefully at Providence Care Hospital at the age of 78. He is the beloved husband of 56 years to Valerie (nee Haunts), caring father of Bruce and David (Alisha) and devoted grandpa to Benjamin and Charlotte. Doug was the son of Walter (Reg) and Frankie Hamilton (nee Davies) and brother to Ross Hamilton. Doug enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He loved playing bridge and was an active member of the Kingston Chapter of the Professional Engineers. He will be greatly missed by his many extended family and friends in the community.
Doug entered RMC at the age of 17 and began his 31-year varied career in the military. Doug was a lifelong learner and earned his Masters of Mechanical Engineering from the US Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California and his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University.
A private family inurnment will take place at Cataraqui Cemetery in the Field of Honour at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to UHKF – Providence Care Hospital.
Struck off Strength from the Class of 1958
4186 Rod Hendrickson: I regret to advise you of the death of Rod Hendrickson in July, 2023 in Calgary. I am grateful to Blythe Haenni for passing the news to me. I have not received any further details from the family, but do know that Rod’s wife has been in health care for many years.
4138 Bill Osborne: A few months ago, I received a note from Bill’s daughter, Dorothea Kavanagh, advising that her Dad had passed away on 23 August, 2023 from heart failure. No further details were provided.
3983 Gerald Lefebvre: It is will considerable sadness that I inform you of the death of 3983 Gerald Lefebvre in early October, in the BMP hospital in Cowansville, Quebec, from various heart
problems.
4221 Doug Brown: On Wednesday, 27 December, 2023, Doug’s daughter, Darlene, advised the Class Sec. that Doug had passed away on 16 December from the effects of Parkinsons Disease.
There will be a celebration of life for him in the New Years. No further details available as yet. Doug’s wife, Joan, is in care with Alzheimers.
Je me rappelle très bien bien de Chris. Je fus son professeur de français au RMC. C’était un étudiant qui prenait l’apprentissage de la langue seconde au sérieux. Il faisait beaucoup d’effort en classe et à l’extérieur de la classe. Il a atteint un très bon niveau de français grâce à sa persévérance.
Je tiens à offrir mes plus sincères condoléances à toute sa famille.
Robert Charette
Professeur de français, langue seconde, au RMC à la retraite
In response to the sad list of four Class of 1958 SOS classmates, my congratulations to Phil Smith, Lass Secretary. May each of his four Lost Comrades be Resting in Peace and be well and long remembered! TDV
Very sad to hear of Chris Deere. He was a BWK when I was Weapons Officer, HMCS OTTAWA (DDH 229) during the mid-1980s. During a port visit to St. Croix, the wardroom did a run ashore. Chris piped us from pub to pub in Christiansted. We only stopped when a local constable asked to see our permit for a parade. No permit, no piping.
I was sorry to hear that Doug passed away in December. I was a forward on the senior basketball team at RMC
and played with Doug during my first year at RMC in 1956. He was a pleasure to play with and a steady influence
for the team. Rudy Gall
I was sorry to read that Doug Brown passed away in December. I was a forward on the senior basketball team
at RMC and played with Doug during my first year in the Fall of 1956. He was a pleasure to play with and a
steady influence for the team. According to his obituary he enjoyed a great career and family.
Rudy Gall