Obituaries

THOMAS, Doug

On Monday, July 22, 2019, Doug went to be with the Lord at the age of 75. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Gayle, and their 3 children Shane, Ann, and Benjamin. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Owen, and Kai who were the delight of his life; as well as his sister Deryl Simpson and brother Dennis Thomas. He was predeceased by his brother David and his granddaughter Bronwen, both of whom he loved dearly.
Doug was born on small homestead farm in Berwyn, Alberta. The youngest of 4 children: David, Dennis, Derly and Doug, or the 4 D's as they were affectionately called. A bit of a wanderer in his younger years, Doug's travels took him many places; including, Whitehorse where he met Gayle, the woman that would be his wife and co-parent for many years. Together they made their way on many different adventures and after moving to Victoria and across the country they returned to British Columbia and settled in Peachland to finish raising their three children.
Doug was a man of many passions: Cadets, Hunting, Cars, Racing, Sailing, Fishing... and then some more fishing. But the greatest of Doug's passions was his family. If you spoke with Doug it was a rare occasion when he did not share his pride and love of Gayle, Shane, Benjamin, Ann or his beloved grandchildren, Bronwen, Owen or Kai.
Doug was also a man that valued community and connection. His faith and church community were an important place where he was able to provide support and in turn receive return the love and support of his spiritual family.
The family would like to extend their wholehearted thanks to staff and Chaplin at the Village at Smith Creek for the love and care that they undertook while Doug was a resident there. Although Doug will be missed, he remains in our hearts and the infinite ways he has touched our lives during his journey on earth.

A celebration of Doug

Link: www.springfieldfuneralhome.com/obituaries/thomas-doug/

Condolence Messages

Aug 01, 2019
Gayle and Family:

I am so sorry for your great loss. My deepest condolences to you all.

I will always remember him and his stories, his smiles and caring way.

May your memories keep him alive in your hearts. He will be missed.

R.I.P. Doug.

Thinking of you all,

Lulu Hall
Jul 30, 2019
So sorry to hear of Doug's passing. Happily with the Lord. Fred and Daisy Essery
Jul 30, 2019
I have only just heard of my Uncle Doug's passing. My Dad, Dennis Thomas, held off telling me while I was away because he knew how upset it would make me. Because I live in England now, there haven't been many chances to see my Uncle Doug. The last time was in Big White a few years back. However, my most vivid memories of Doug are from my childhood when he was with my Auntie Gayle and both seemed to be so free-spirited and loving, that it was a perfect escapist antidote to my life of school on a military base. Being in the front seat of his pick-up truck with my brother, Shawn; duck-hunting (well holding the ducks at least); picking berries on my Papa's farm; there are many tiny memories that I am thankful for.

My sincere condolences go to my Aunt Gayle and cousins Shane, Ann and Benjamin. Love to you all.

Lisa Thomas
Jul 29, 2019
Pam and I are so sad to hear of my old friend's passing. Doug and I shared many happy adventures together growing up in Central Saanich. Some of the best moments of my teenage years were spent riding around in his Mum's old '48 Dodge sedan or his Dad's '48 Ford pickup truck. In school we sang together in the choir and I can still hear his voice now. Doug was a unique character and they'll never be another like him.

Gord Bates
Jul 27, 2019
Gayle and family, Doug was a nice man and will be dearly missed, I have fond memories of him at the Peachland community church where he meant so much to a lot of people and the congregation. Doug helped so many people with his prayers and kind heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will be truly missed but I know you will find comfort knowing he is with the Jesus now!

Tony Costa and family!
Jul 26, 2019
Gayle and family,

I am so very sorry to hear of Doug's passing. He was such a lovely man who made me smile and laugh whenever I saw him. RIP Doug. Hugs and prayers to all.

Karen Lutz
Jul 26, 2019
I had the privilege of knowing Doug who I met through John Humphries in Peachland many years ago. I also had the pleasure of attending a few Christian home group meetings at his and Gayle's home. At my invitation he attended a Full Gospel Businessman's meeting in Kelowna and shared his Testimony as to how he came to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. I am so glad I went with John Humphries recently to visit him. He was so alert and with it I was surprised he has left this world for a much better place. He will be enjoying being with the Jesus he loved and served.

David R. Mossman
Jul 25, 2019
Gayle and family, Sending love and caring thoughts to you all at this sad time. When I think of Doug, the many Bible studies Tom and I attended at your home, come to mind. May God be with you all. Sharon Hagell