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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
JOHNSON, John Douglas (Doug) - Passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at the Stratford General Hospital in his 83rd year.
Beloved husband of Phyllis (Frier) Johnson who he married December 3, 1973. Dear father of Russell (Wendy) Ferguson of Victoria, B.C., Kim (Sam) Ferguson of Cumberland , B.C., Grant (Shirley) MacPherson of Victoria, B.C., Scott (Yvon) MacPherson of Toronto and Wynn (Margaret) MacPherson. Sadly missed by 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Survived by his brother Ed (Lorraine) Johnson of Shawnigan Lake, B.C., his sisters Denise (Dale) Smart of Sidney. B.C. and Terry Lynn (Cliff) Zachary of Victoria, B.C.
Doug was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and moved to Victoria, BC, where he joined the Navy in his late teens. If ever asked, he proudly claimed to have served during "the big one" (aka the Cuban Missile Crisis). After his time in the Navy, Doug began apprenticing as a carpenter in Victoria and started a career in commercial construction in British Columbia. He then moved to Ontario, where he worked his way up to become a senior superintendent for both Eastern and Sifton, while adding a few more stories to his life's journey along the way.
After working and living in various locations around Ontario, Doug retired to Gananoque where he was able to enjoy his love of boating, fishing, and visiting the casino. His winters were spent with Phyllis in Marco Island, Florida, where he would pass the time on the golf course or earning his captain's license while living on the boat.
Doug's love of playing ball was obvious wherever he lived - from helping form a fastball league in Sidney, to sponsoring teams through the Hotel, and playing slow-pitch with the Bald Dogs in Exeter, his passion for sports and community went hand-in-hand.
Known to many as RayJay, Doug will be fondly remembered as an iconic staple at the Dashwood Hotel and a legendary host of some wild nights at the house on 83, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the drinks.
But perhaps Doug's greatest legacy is his love for his family. As a Grandad and Great-Grandad, Doug had an energy that could rival anyone half his age, often outlasting the kids with his endless jokes and laughter.
His memory will live on in the many lives he touched, and he will be remembered as a man who lived life the way he wanted.
Rest easy, Doug. We know you're out there somewhere fishing, golfing, telling your best stories, and creating havoc.
Thanks for the memories, and happy trails until we meet again.
A Celebration of Doug's life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Francis Funeral Home, Tavistock. (The Exeter Lakeshore Times-Advance 11 Feb 2025)
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