Obituaries

ARTHURSON, Douglas Ernest

Arthurson, Douglas Ernest - age 90, passed away peacefully with his wife Ira and immediate family at his side in Nanaimo Regional General Hospital on February 11, 2018.
Born in Halton, England, Doug began his education in the Church school, where his father was principal. By chance he and Ira attended this school together, their lives would converge again decades later.

While training as a teacher Doug was called up for National Service with the RAF. Doug spent many very successful years at the Manor School in Frodsham guiding hundreds of pupils through the 11+ exam and on to Grammar School. He shared his love of soccer by coaching school teams.

It was during his time teaching in Frodsham that Doug met Ira, a widow, who was also a teacher. They thrived in each other's company and Doug became a surrogate father figure for Ira's children Graham and Helen. Doug and Ira married in 1970 and the family spent many fun filled summers near Abersoch in N Wales where Doug was able to pursue his love of sailing in offshore races.

In 1975 the family decided to emigrate to Canada. Doug continued to teach in Kelowna for 10 years before retiring aged 59. Having enjoyed tennis all his life, Doug was now able to successfully compete in Canadian masters' tournaments. He and Ira travelled extensively in Canada and the US meeting many fellow retirees. Many people have commented on the care Doug took to acknowledge others and make them feel comfortable, which led to many lasting friendships.

The move to Nanaimo from Kelowna allowed Doug & Ira to stay with Helen to simplify caring for Doug after his many years with Parkinson's. Graham and his wife Cynthia travel from Prince George to assist as needed, Cynthia's background in nursing has been a big help to everyone.

Doug is survived by his loving wife of 48 yrs, Ira; sister Kathleen and brother John (UK); stepson Graham and stepdaughter Helen; 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Doug was predeceased by his brother Alan (UK).

Cremation has taken place through Sands Funeral Home in Nanaimo, and an internment service will be held at the Cathedral Church of St Michaels & All Angels in Kelowna at 3:00pm on Saturday March 17th, 2018. A reception will follow the service. Memorial donations in Doug's memory may be made to the Church in person or through their website: http://ccsmaa.ca/

Condolence Messages

Mar 19, 2018
Dear Ira, my prayers are with you and the family. Rose Powell
Mar 06, 2018
My heart goes out to Ira in the passing of this great man. I played many a tennis match with Doug and his sense of fairness was most noticable by me and many others! He was a first class educator as well and he will be missed by many.

Derek Turvey
Mar 05, 2018
Doug, you showed me that our sport can be played at a high level at any age. You were a respected man. All my thoughts go out to family. Brian Holtan.
Mar 05, 2018
Ira, Helen, and family:

We hold you in our prayers, with many fond memories of Doug at St Michaels. All will be ready for St Patrick's Day, and we will be with you in spirit from across the pond.

Carmel & David Worrall
Mar 02, 2018
Doug was a great guy, always keen for great conversation. He is missed.

Frits Verkerk
Mar 01, 2018
While I know you had many wonderful years together, Ira, this is never uneasy time. Am certainly thinking of you. Sincerely...Brian Harms
Mar 01, 2018
This man was so loved and respected.....we had some very great man to young man chats throughout the years....education and sports....such an easy man to speak with and listen to.....our hearts go out to you, Ira and my thanks to Doug for giving me the chance to be a small part of his life!

Doug and Linda Watson
Mar 01, 2018
Thinking of you Ira. Always enjoyed Doug's way with people- so patient teaching me to serve a tennis ball.

Roly Harvey
Mar 01, 2018
My prayers are with you Ira. Rick Ainsbury