Douglas Lloyd Stockdale
January 27, 1923 - December 2, 2009
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather at the Huronia District Hospital in Midland. Douglas will be held forever in the hearts of his family: his sons Thomas (Beverley) of Barrie, Richard (Claudia) of Hamilton; his grandchildren Jason, Erin (Andrew), Liam and Arielle; his loving nieces and nephews and their families throughout Canada and the United States. Predeceased by his childhood sweetheart and wife for over 60 years, Dorothy (April 11, 2009), whom he missed so dearly; his sisters Elizabeth (Martin), Anna (Hillery), Thelma (Lawson), and Ruth (Smith); and his brothers Thomas and Richard. Douglas was born in Toronto, the youngest in a large and loving family. He developed his diligent work ethic; ‘people’ skills; and wonderful sense of humour during his early years, when he spent summers working at the family run summer resort of Cedar Croft in the District of Parry Sound. It was there that he met the love of his life, Dorothy (Dale). Upon graduation from Bloor Collegiate, Douglas entered the pre-law program at the University of Toronto before joining the army during World War II. He was a member of the Algonquin Regiment and valiantly served his country and king in England, Holland and Germany. When the war concluded he attended Khaki College in England and the University of Toronto. After he married Dorothy in 1948, Douglas spent over a decade as a salesman in northern Ontario and Toronto. At the age of 39, he left the business world and entered teachers college. He spent twenty rewarding years as a master teacher and Guidance Chairman at Lawrence Heights Junior High School. When he retired, Douglas became an active member of the Golden ‘K’ Kiwanis Club of Barrie. He always looked forward to his summers with Dorothy and his family (especially his grandchildren) at the cottage on Ahmic Lake: swimming; boating; and particularly sailing. As the last surviving member of his generation of the Stockdale family, Douglas acted as a patriarch for this closely knit (extended) family, instilling values and a sense of love for each other. He always had a strong faith, and was comforted in his final days, by the fact that he would be soon joining Dorothy. Special thanks are extended to the staffs of Roberta Place; the Royal Victoria Hospital; the Huronia District Hospital; and Dr. Vehaeghe for their compassionate care. Friends may call at Collier Street United Church, 112 Collier Street Barrie on Sunday, January 17 at 2:00 pm (Service at 3:00 pm). Memorial donations may be made to either Collier Street United Church, or Knox Presbyterian Church, Magnetawan. Online condolences may be forwarded to the family. www.steckleygooderham.com.