Doug was one of my best friends growing up in Lethbridge. I roomed with him at university, and we both went out of our way to connect later in life.
I recall in Elementary school that Doug was mature beyond his age and not taken to normal childish behaviour and thought. Many of his classmates recognized his thoughtful approach to life, and this admiration garnered a bit of a following. Yet this kind of attention never went to his head.
We shared a common passion for basketball during our high school days, and I loved playing Doug one-on-one. We often went to class in a sweat. We played on the same church basketball team, and I admired his zeal and energy on the court.
I have many fond memories of our time together. He was a passionate person with strong feelings and thoughts about life, principles, and politics. He lived by discipline and order and enjoyed hard work. He loved the outdoors, music, relationships, and life. As others have pointed out, he was a great listener. Like his father, when you talked with him, you felt his genuine concern. He was a disciple of Jesus Christ in how he loved, interacted, and ministered to others.
I recall one of the last times we met, he went out of his way to find me while I was working at the University. He embraced me, and we had an enjoyable time reminiscing and bringing each other up-to-date on our lives.
He lived a life worthy of remembrance and emulation. I extend my condolences and love to his family.
Marlo Steed