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Doug Reid

Image by Nick Andréka

JOHN DOUGLAS REID

July 31, 1944 - August 19, 2020

On Wednesday, August 19, 2020, (John) Douglas Reid of Sioux Narrows, Ontario, passed away after a brief struggle with cancer with his family by his side. 

 

A tremendous loss is felt by his wife of 50 years, Janice, and his sons and their families, Tom and Katie with Adam and Rosie, Peter and Allison with Norah-Grace and Marsden, and Mike and Jessica with June and Stella.  Also bereft are his brothers-and-sisters-in-law, Arlene, Jim and Lynne, Tony and Shirley, George and Sophie, and Grace Anne and Leonard.  He was predeceased by his parents, Evelyn and Clifford, and brother, Jim, as well as Janice’s parents, George and Grace Austin.  He is missed by his many dear friends, well-known from living for 47 years in Sioux Narrows.  After being an OPP Constable in the Niagara area, he returned to school in Lindsay, Ontario, to become a Resource Technician graduating with top marks in his class. 

 

Following employment with the Abitibi Paper Company, he worked for 25 years as a Conservation Officer with the Ministry of Natural Resources….. two years at Jeanette’s Creek near Tilbury and the remainder in Sioux Narrows where he became highly skilled at navigating the waters of Lake of the Woods with its many islands and reefs at any time, day or night, before GPS was available.   After retirement in 1997, he continued to keep busy - helping seasonal residents with their cabins, guiding, trapping leeches, measuring snow levels for the M.N.R., and working a trap line.  Doug was an avid and successful fisherman and hunter. 

 

He was always eager to lend a helping hand and was generous with his time.  He also had a great sense of humour, ready with a clever comment or funny story.  Visiting his sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren gave him much pleasure, and not being able to continue to be part of their lives was a great disappointment to him.  He loved them dearly.  And now, as we believe, he is free to be at peace with our Heavenly Father.  

 

We are so thankful for the compassionate, kind, and gentle care Doug received in hospital at the Health Sciences Centre on Ward GH4 Internal Medicine in Winnipeg.  Also, the prompt and caring response of the MAID team to his request was so appreciated.  The following are songs that have special meaning for the family if you would like to listen to them:  I’ll Fly Away by Joey and Rory; When I Get Where I’m Going by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton; The Voyage by Christy Moore; Have I Told You Lately That I Love You by Van Morrison; Ready to Fly by FFH; You Raise Me Up by Selah; On Eagle’s Wings by Kitty Cleveland.  

 

Doug’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. They also encourage the sharing of photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations to the charity of your choice in Doug’s name.

 

Locally, the Kenora Fellowship Centre, Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, and Lake of the Woods General Hospital would be suggestions. 

 

“Grief never ends…. but it changes.  It’s a passage, not a place to stay.  Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith….. It is the price of love.”

Donna VanLiere 

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Kristine and Scott Karl

August 16, 2021 at 1:38 PM

Doug was one of my favorite people of all time, and Scott's also. We miss him so much. We cannot even think of Canada without thinking of him. He is a big part of so many of our memories from Canada (and Florida too). He even chaperoned Scott and I on our first date. We are sending love and prayers to the whole family. 

Ken

August 16, 2021 at 9:41 AM

Our condolences to the family on this anniversary. Thank you for keeping the memories alive. Please take care.  Caren, Ken, Kathryn, Harrison

Jim Conway

August 16, 2021 at 8:33 AM

"One of a kind".. Doug exemplified this phrase in many wonderful ways! I'm glad I married his cousin. Having known him for over 40 years was a privilege. Fishing Lake of the Woods won't be the same, but memories of Doug will always be there!

Sheila

November 23, 2020 at 10:05 AM

So said to hear this news.  My heart goes out to the family.  

Tannis Romaniuk

October 19, 2020 at 3:52 PM

Dear Janice ( Mrs. Reid) I am so sorry for your loss and I have to share with you.  How very happy grandma was that you and Doug were the ones to purchase her little slice of heaven.  She always said she could rest easy knowing you were going to love it like she and grandpa did!  I trust you enjoyed many years and I have fond memories of your generosity and support during those early years.  May those memories bring you some comfort during these difficult days.  Fondly, Tannis and Greg Romaniuk  

Deena de la Torre

October 18, 2020 at 4:45 PM

Dear Janice,  I am so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing,  sending condolences to you and family.  Deena de la Torre (Phinney).  Lloydminster AB 

Steven Roffe

October 15, 2020 at 9:15 PM

Dear Janice, I was so sorry to hear about Doug’s illness and passing.  He touched the lives of so many and will be sorely missed, especially in SN. Sending prayers of compassion and peace from Lindsay, ON.   Take great care of yourself, Steven Roffe

John Roos

October 15, 2020 at 8:15 PM

Janice and family. We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Doug. I have known Doug for many years and had the great pleasure of learning from him as a new CO. He was the type of enforcement officer that I tried to be for the rest of my career. He was knowledgeable, patient and always compassionate while being thorough in his enforcement duties. I can attest to Doug’s knowledge of the lake, as I will never forget his skill at navigating through Turtle Portage, full speed in a boat and in the absolute blackness of night. We all have fond memories of a great guy. John and Judy Roos.

Mike Milligan

October 15, 2020 at 3:06 PM

Dear Janice and Family, Please accept our condolences on the loss of Doug.  He was a great and welcoming friend at Church, in town, and on the lake.  We will never forget our trip to the Pines with Doug and Moon in March 2020.  What a fountain of knowledge and, as others have said, a true gentleman.  RIP Doug Joyce and Mike Milligan

Tim Neidenbach retried CO Ear Falls, Ontario

October 1, 2020 at 10:22 PM

I always had tremendous respect for CO Doug Reid.  When I started as a CO, I had several occasions to chat with Doug at the old Fish and Wildlife Seminars.  He always made time to chat with new officers.  Always calm, polite, quiet and when he spoke people listened. Sad to see another true protector of our natural resources depart.  Happy fishing Doug.  

Vanessa Nieminen

September 30, 2020 at 8:16 PM

Dear Janice, So sorry to hear about your husband’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Hold tight to your memories. Brian and Vanessa Nieminen 

Susan Hissa

September 30, 2020 at 7:19 PM

I will always remember how welcome and respected Doug made me feel as a new to Lake of the Woods MNR employee 💛

Howard Reid

September 30, 2020 at 6:32 PM

Goodbye dear cousin and friend. You touched a lot of lives along the way. Your legacy will live on. Howard Reid

Andrina and Rick Schuit

September 29, 2020 at 9:05 PM

Before she left for her trip to Holland this fall, my sister told me of Doug's passing in Wpg. Rick and I are very saddened by the news. Our condolences to to Janice and the boys. My most vivid memory of him was when after learning of the disappeance of my cat Tigger ( we lived next door to the Reid's in SN) Doug had found him at the end of the driveway by the hwy. Doug found out that it was our kitty, and brought him back to me so we could give him a burial. I'll never forget the compassion he showed at our loss. I can't imagine the loss the family is enduring. I still get teary eyed when I think of my own father's passing 20 yrs later. Keep your memories, they will comfort you in your time of loss. 

Keri Willis

September 29, 2020 at 7:24 PM

Janice, boys and families, Sorry for the loss of your husband, father(in-law) as well as grandpa. Doug was always nice to me. Take care. Praying for you all. Keri Kubera Willis.

Ken Maw

September 29, 2020 at 12:33 PM

I would like to send our condolences to you and family. I didn’t get to see him a lot for many years but it was always a pleasure to see him, And especially to have worked with him for so long. It is alway so difficult to see such a great person pass on. He will be missed by so many. So know our thoughts are with you. Ken and Janet Maw.

Rose Zurkan

September 29, 2020 at 5:18 AM

Another MNR former employee gone.  Doug was an exceptional man.  His gentle nature was admired by many.  The family was blessed to have had him in their lives.  You can feel the love in that beautiful video.  May all those happy memories bring you comfort.

Todd Penner

September 28, 2020 at 7:05 PM

My favourite memories of Doug include the times we played Thursday night MTO hockey, along with my Dad, driving an hour each way together, just for an hour of shinny.   But it was great fun, and Doug was always up for a bit of competition.  But what really impressed me was his faithful service to the community, flooding the Rec Centre ice and doing many other thankless tasks with SNERD... Sioux Narrows Energetic Recreation Department.... for the sake of the youth of the community.   A great role model and example!

Bill Stunden

September 28, 2020 at 5:57 PM

I was deeply saddened to hear of Doug’s passing. I hadn’t known Doug for very long but when I first met him 8 years ago I know he was a special person. Kind and considerate, always open to engaging conversation, especially over coffee at Gilles’s early in the morning or in the afternoon. Doug’s good hearted ness will be missed by all who knew him. My sincere condolences go out to Janice, Mike, family and friends. May Doug Rest In Peace.

Rick & Heather Karl

September 28, 2020 at 3:41 PM

The Karl family and friends enjoyed the best times of our lives at Tullibee Lodge on Lake of the Woods because of Doug Reid. Doug was more than a fishing companion, guide, shore lunch cooker, host, concierge, contractor and great gentleman...he was a trusted best friend and master of the five minute job.  We were most fortunate to know and love him. He can Rest In Peace knowing that he was loved and truly admired by his family, friends and whole Sioux Narrows community. The times we shared will forever warm our hearts.  We will always love the old stories, see the smile, hear the laughter and feel the friendship of those times. We are comforted knowing that God smiles on Doug for a life well lived with Janice, his family and the grace he shared with others. Someday we will fish together again, my friend, boating through Blueberry to Sunset Channel for Walleye on the rock piles, shore lunch cooked at Tullibee Lodge with a rum and Coke in hand.  Those were special days and forever memories. Gone too soon.  Tears for our loss.  We will miss our friend. This is our favorite picture of Doug; note the rum and Coke close by. Love and condolences to all, Rick, Heather and the Karl family

Ken McGhie

September 28, 2020 at 1:04 PM

Doug was special in so many ways.  Nancy and I met Doug and Janice 40+ years ago.  He was a hard work C.O. that made a positive impression on everyone he met  In addition to his commitment to protecting the environment, Doug met and discussed the Lake of the Woods area with anyone that would listen. He loved our lake.  Everyone will agree that Doug was willing to help anyone that requested it. He had the tools, the knowledge and the energy to be a valuable addition to any project.   Fond memories include sitting around a fire discussing world events, numerous dinner parties, shore lunches and, of course, our frequent game nights.  Nancy and I will miss Doug— he was a very special guy.   

Deborah Davis

September 28, 2020 at 12:20 AM

My sincere condolences to Janice and family. I met Doug shortly after coming to SN way back when. He was so welcoming. Such a nice man, and wonderful family. Thoughts and prayers to you guys🙏

Brooks Gargiulo

September 27, 2020 at 9:54 PM

Awesome family: always treated with the greatest of respect.

Margaret davis

September 27, 2020 at 8:51 PM

My sincere condolences for such a wonderful man he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace!  Margaret Davis

Gord Rickaby

September 27, 2020 at 7:47 PM

I will always remember my joint forces snowmobile patrols with Doug. His knowledge of the lake and his handy hiding places kept us gassed up and going for hours  He was a great partner at work and friend. Tara and I alway enjoyed and appreciated running in to Doug after we moved from Sioux Narrows. Our sincere condolences to you Janice, and to the boys and their families 

David G. Ferguson

September 27, 2020 at 7:15 PM

Very sorry to learn of his passing. Excellent tribute and video. I went through the course at Fleming in Lindsay at the same time as Doug. To all his family and close friends, my condolences.

Ginny Stephano Sawkins

September 27, 2020 at 6:34 PM

To Janice and family, My son Dan and I are so very sad to learn of Doug's passing.  Even though we have been away from Sioux Narrows for a very long time, we have kept in touch with friends through the years.  I remember Doug so well, as does Dan.  He remembers, as a little boy, hiding his stringer of bluegills caught off Frank Vacek's dock (by permission!) because he didn't have a license and didn't want to be caught!  I remember so many things about Doug but one in particular....his untied boot laces!  Those were happy, wonderful days and the Reids hold a special place in our hearts.  May he rest in peace.  Love to all and our sincerest sympathies.  I know Sioux Narrows will be lost without his presence. Ginny (Stephano) Sawkins.

James A Abbott CD

September 27, 2020 at 6:26 PM

I never had the opportunity to meet you husband/father but it appears that he had a character larger than life. I wish you sunnier days.  God Bless Retired Conservation Officer James A Abbott CD

Darlene Rogers

September 27, 2020 at 6:02 PM

RIP Doug. Fly with Angel's.

September 27, 2020 at 4:45 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. He alwasy had a smile when he seen  u..That little town has los another great man😪❤🙏...Wendy.S

Dave and Matsy Kenney

September 27, 2020 at 3:30 PM

I will never forget the great times Doug and I shared when working as Conservation Officers in Tilbury many years ago. He was a very dependable and dedicated officer. We slso had wonderful times when off duty and are unforgetable as well. He was both firm but fair in his dealings with the public snd was very compassionate.  I really missed him after he and Janice  departed for Sioux Narrows.  This is a great tribute to an outstanding person and Conservation Officer. Janice and family please accept our most heartfelt condolences.

Holly Chant

September 27, 2020 at 3:06 PM

So sorry to hear this. Doug was always very nice to me and my family. Every time I saw him in Sioux Narrows he’d always say hi and ask about my mom and dad and my auntie, how are they doing  and say hello to them. My thoughts are with Janice and his family. 

Bill McGhie

September 27, 2020 at 3:02 PM

We knew Doug for over 47 years, which just doesn’t seem possible!  Doug was one our best friends, we enjoyed many great times together - cook outs, shore lunches and some shore dinners, playing cards or just getting together!  We even took a few vacations together and Doug and Janice came to visit us in our homes in Illinois, Kansas and Florida!  Great memories!  Like so many others we also experienced Doug’s caring, kindness and help over and over!  Doug would not only offer us his solutions, to the many challenges we faced while living in Sioux Narrows - Doug would also usually insist on coming to our rescue and helping us out!  Doug was a wonderful Family Man, Father, Grandfather and a great friend to so many of us who were fortunate enough to have known him!  Doug will surely be missed, but never forgotten - for us Sioux Narrows just won’t be quite the same without Doug there!  Bill & Marlo

Tracy Lindstrom

September 27, 2020 at 2:50 PM

I’m very sorry to hear this news. My thoughts are with you Janice, and with your family. 

Brit

September 27, 2020 at 2:35 PM

So sorry family. He was such a good man. I'll always remember him for his hard, steady work ethic, painting cabins with him and taking care of the home he loved. What an angel to have on your side. Speak to him always.  With love, Brit

Russ & Lise Wilson

September 27, 2020 at 2:30 PM

A beautiful tribute to a wonderful man. Even so many years after we left Sioux Narrows he always remembered us and always had time to stop and have a visit. Always with a great story and a laugh. He will be missed. Janice and family, know that we are thinking of you all. 

Bill Franchuk

September 27, 2020 at 2:15 PM

The video is a wonderful tribute to a great guy and a great life.  My condolences to Janice and all the family.  I have many memories of Doug from over the years in Sioux Narrows.  He was our project supervisor many years ago when we had a grant to build the playground and baseball diamond (including the huge backstop) at the rec centre.  I remember Doug and my Dad having some interesting conversations over coffee - I am sure they are having more of them now.  R.I.P. Doug.

Nancy McGhie

September 27, 2020 at 1:04 PM

What a beautiful tribute that captures Doug’s legacy to his family and the community.  We will miss Doug’s friendly smile and local knowledge of the wilderness he shared with us all.  We are thinking of you, Janice and your family in this time of loss.

Barb & Steve Salvador

September 27, 2020 at 12:57 PM

WOW, what a Beautiful Memorial.  Doug was an Icon in Sioux Narrows, always there to lend a hand and lend an ear.   He knew no strangers. We have lost a good man.  To the family,, Deepest sympathy,Janice and Doug raised 3 amazing sons, which I am happy to have seen grow and started their families.   Take care, treasure you memories. 

Denise Johansen

September 27, 2020 at 12:31 PM

Doug's love for family and community was evident in  how he lived his life. He was always willing to lend a hand and offer suggestions. My favorite memory was when I came up to Sioux Narrows in late March. He volunteered to drive his car for my first trip on the ice road. Once we got out a ways he stop and took photos of Laura and I. I asked when would be the last day he would feel safe driving on the ice he responded with a sly smile and said "Yesterday". I loved Doug's sense of humor! My prayers are with Janice, Tom and Katie, Peter and Allison, Mike and Jessie and his beautiful grandchildren. A great man who will be missed by his family, friends, and community!

Darrell Nisly

September 27, 2020 at 12:26 PM

What a beautiful tribute to a great man! Doug was such a stable figure in the Sioux Narrows community. I experienced him as a considerate, thoughtful, caring individual, and will certainly miss him. My prayers are for comfort, courage, and peace for Janice and the family!

Pete and Carol

September 27, 2020 at 12:26 PM

It is a Blessing to be able to share  that precious time with the ones we love.  Many memories.    God Bless

Stacey Francis

September 27, 2020 at 12:03 PM

My deepest condolences to Janice and her sons and all the family. ❤

Dorothy Lougheed

September 27, 2020 at 11:40 AM

A beautiful tribute Janice. We lost a great neighbor who was always willing to help if needed. Willard enjoyed working with Doug on Karl’s cabin. Our condolences Janice to you & the boys.

Pete Corkey

September 27, 2020 at 11:08 AM

One of the Finest Gentleman in this community , always a smiling face and interesting conversation, , Will definitely miss seeing him around,  Deepest Condolences to his Family,, 

Lynne Dimma

September 27, 2020 at 11:01 AM

I will miss his big bright smile when I would see him and the enthusiastic hi Lynne. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Wonderful tribute of his love for his family, and their love for him. He is missed in Sioux Narrows and will be. He was a big presence and help here. Rest in Peace dear friend. Please accept my sincere condolences Janice and family.

Mary Prpich

September 27, 2020 at 10:26 AM

What a beautiful tribute and music. Janice both you and Doug were such lovely next door neighbours when you lived in Stoney Point (Point aux Roches, eh!) over 40 years ago. I still remember his huge smiles and your infectious laugh. I am so glad that you got to visit Dave and I in Florida a few years back. My deepest condolences to you, your boys and their families. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Mary

Chris Bell

September 27, 2020 at 10:20 AM

Great tribute to my best friend that I had the honor of knowing for 47 years....he was like a brother to me ...RIP Doug

Erick Bennett

September 27, 2020 at 10:13 AM

he was a good guy 

Gina Larson

September 27, 2020 at 9:52 AM

The tribute of pictures and beautiful song chosen was so extremely touching and fitting. My condolences to Janice and your amazing sons. I'm honored to have Doug as a family friend of the Fouchers growing up and to also have him share his fatherly figure to my son Peter. May you all find peace knowing he is no longer suffering. Love Gina Larson (Foucher)

Lauri Mayer

September 27, 2020 at 9:21 AM

What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man.  Him and his family was a major tribute to the Sioux narrows community.  He will be missed greatly. ❤

Bohdan Gulczewski

September 27, 2020 at 9:19 AM

I have often asked Doug for help and suggestions on a variety of issues. He was always positive and helpful. My time with him and the “boys” at coffee will truly be missed. A special thanks to Doug for his advice and interest in helping my grand daughter become a game warden. Doug say Hi to Justin,Brad and Jack for us. 

Allan and Mary Morris

September 27, 2020 at 9:12 AM

Janice and family; We are so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. We have always enjoyed coffee and chats with him. He was a great person. He will be sorely missed. Allan and Mary Morris

Mary Helen Van Walleghem

September 27, 2020 at 9:12 AM

Twenty or so years ago when I started commuting to work at Whitefish Bay, Doug was one of the first to make me feel at home in the Sioux Narrows area. Whenever I would see him, he would always welcome me with a cheery ‘Good Morning’, and ask about my drive and the highway conditions. We shared a kinship in being Honda owners. I am so sorry to hear about his passing and offer my sympathy to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace.

The Black Family

September 27, 2020 at 9:11 AM

Beautiful Tribute for a wonderful Human Being.Sending Hugs and Sympathy

Michelle Johnston (former wife of Darryl Desrosiers

September 27, 2020 at 9:07 AM

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute to your entire family. My deepest condolences to your family. May peace love and beautiful memories comfort you .

Tanya McNanney

September 27, 2020 at 8:41 AM

What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man! Sending so much love to his family. Praying for comfort and peace in this very difficult time. 

Penny Beal

September 27, 2020 at 7:50 AM

So difficult to lose anyone, let alone someone so loved and respected. My great sympathy to Janice and family, you will miss him but have such great memories. 

Ted Biggs

September 26, 2020 at 10:35 PM

Doug was mentor of mine he was a true brother l loved him l will truly miss him Ted Biggs