DOUGLAS BRUCE SWANLUND

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DOUGLAS BRUCE SWANLUND Doug passed away on September 14, 2017 after a battle with cancer that he fought with extraordinary humour, optimism and appreciation for all those who fought along side him. Friends and family, known as 'The Village", provided constant love and support along with practical help that made things manageable for Doug, his wife Lonni and their sons, Clay and Per. They were all so grateful for the compassionate and capable care Doug received at the Cancer Agency and later through home care. Doug was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Vera Swanlund, and is survived by his brothers, Paul and Gord (Shelley); nieces, Erica (Rich) and Sally (Joe); and grand-niece and nephews, Bradlee, Chloe and Luc. Doug was born in Winnipeg on December 17, 1954, where he grew up and developed a wide circle of lifelong friends who remain in close contact today. A group that always makes time for each other to celebrate life's milestones and who, no matter what, have fun together. The most recent gathering being the August long weekend at Doug and Lonni's cottage, where his friends and their wives came from across Canada to surprise Doug. They relived their athletic prowess and adolescent missteps and lovingly poked fun at each other. Doug started his much loved airline career in Saskatoon in 1985 with NorcanAir and through a number of mergers ended his career flying 787's for Air Canada. He was very passionate about all things aviation evidenced by his hobby building model airplanes, his incredible knowledge of anything with wings and the length of time he could talk about airplanes without taking a breath. He never grew tired of flying to new places around the world and always made the most of his time on the ground seeing and experiencing as much as he could. Another of Doug's passions was his pub in the basement of his cottage at Lake Cowichan. It was full of treasures he collected from around the world he would tell you the story behind each one. Doug enjoyed nothing more than a crowd in the pub playing pool, having a pint and sharing stories. During his 29 years living in North Saanich, as well as the last 13 years enjoying weekends at the lake, Doug gathered many more dear friends who grew to love and appreciate his humour, generosity and kindness. Friends are invited to a celebration of Doug's life to be held on Sunday, September 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Mary Winspear Hall at 2243 Beacon Ave. in Sidney. A separate dual Celebration of Life will also be held in Winnipeg for Doug and our father Bob, who passed away recently. To be held on Saturday, September 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the clubhouse located at 65 Swindon Way. Their many friends are welcome. Donations in honour of Doug can be made toward the purchase of a PET Scanner to be located in Victoria. Condolences and donations may be made by visiting www.earthsoption.com.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 23, 2017