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DOUGLAS ARTHUR BROWNLEE Obituary pic DOUGLAS ARTHUR BROWNLEE Obituary pic

DOUGLAS ARTHUR BROWNLEE

Date of Passing: Dec 08, 2023

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DOUGLAS ARTHUR BROWNLEE


After a two-year fight with the damn C, on December 8th, with my loving family by my side, I passed peacefully into a long winter sleep.

I am survived by my loving wife of over 40 years, Jo-Ann, son Cody, and daughters Dana (Ben Hudson) and Nicole (Chase Hornby). As well as my sister Mary Ellen (Les Fehr) and brothers Tom (Heather), John (Lauris), and Don (Cynthia). And finally, my many nephews and nieces, as well as my cousin Bruce and Dad's cousin, Margaret Ann Cuddy.

I was predeceased by my father, Donald Brownlee, and very recently, my mother, Mary.

I am very very grateful for all the support my family and I have received over the last two years from all of our extended family, as well as the many many friends Jo-Ann and I are fortunate to have.

I sleep now with some of my favourite memories.

Golfing and watching sports with Cody and, more recently, talking about the great opportunities of being part of the new AVID Golf adventure.

Taking long walks and watching movies with Nicole was always relaxing and peaceful.

Visiting Dana, Ben, and Opie in Calgary and having many great meals and a few drinks was always enjoyable.

Oh, and the golf trips with the boys to Phoenix!!

The numerous Brownlee family get-togethers at our home as well as the Fehr and Sahaidak homes.

Of course, my most numerous and special memories are with Jo-Ann. Raising the kids together, usually far from the support of our own families unfortunately, as we moved to Calgary and Toronto in support of my career. As well as all the outstanding memories of the travel we were able to do with and without the kids.

I went way too soon, but I remind myself that I did have a great 62 years!

I do not wish to hear, "he lost the battle with C."

I am not a doctor, but I'm pretty sure when I died, so does the C. So, lets call it a draw.

My only advice - ensure you cherish every day that you and your loved ones are in good health, as things can change very very quickly.

Gotta go now - my ride's here.

Doug's family would like to thank the kind and caring health care professionals at Urgent Cancer Care, Riverview Health Centre, Health Sciences Centre, St. Boniface Hospital, Victoria Hospital, and the home and palliative care nurses with the Southern Health Region. Never underestimate the impact you have on people's lives.

In lieu of flowers, the Brownlee's request a donation be made to Cancer Care Manitoba or Harvest Manitoba.

The funeral will be held on December 16th, 2023, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (4588 Roblin Blvd.) at 11 a.m.

Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 14, 2023, Dec 14, 2023

Condolences & Memories (19 entries)

  • We just read about Doug's passing and we are shocked and deeply saddened. We knew Doug since we moved into Assiniboine Landing in 2007 and he was always cheerful, friendly and full of life. As he stated he has been taken way to soon and will be missed. Our condolences to Jo-Ann and family. Doug's very articulate obituary really said it all and we all need to grab as much out of life as we can because it can change so quickly. Play well Doug and enjoy the golf you are now playing. - Posted by: Debora and Tim Durnin-Richards (Neighbour and Friend) on: Jan 12, 2024

  • I would like to offer my condolences to the entire Brownlee family as the far too early passing of Doug is a reminder of just how fragile life is. I met Doug & Jo-Ann way back in his career when they moved to Calgary and Doug was one of the defensive twin towers of our wall of doom ball hockey team. Our friendship evolved to include our families and although we have not been able to see each other often due to geography over the last few years, whenever we did get together it was like only a day had passed since our last meeting. Doug was a genuinely good human being, gentle soul and his family was always number one in his mind but he also made you feel that being his friend was also special. Rest well my friend. - Posted by: Glenn Martyn (Friend) on: Dec 19, 2023

  • Our deepest condolences to the Brownlee family. We are thinking of you all during this difficult time. The McGregor family (cousins) - Posted by: Cathy McGregor (Cousin) on: Dec 17, 2023

  • Dear Jo-Ann and family. Deepest condolences to you all on the passing of cousin Doug. My brothers Bruce, Terry and I grew up with the Brownlee lads and Mary Ellen in Thunder Bay back in the 60’s. Fast forward years later to life in Winnipeg where Bruce enjoyed attending Bombers & Jets games as well as quality time playing shiny with the Brownlee “Bros”. May you all have fond memories of your time with Doug. And I am sure that he is enjoying a pint or a “wee dram” up in the heavens with his parents Mary & Don and all the Cameron relatives that have passed on over the years. RIP cous…. Brian Cameron. - Posted by: Brian Cameron (Cousin) on: Dec 16, 2023

  • Doug and Jo-Ann were our neighbors for a very short period of time- but it did not take much time for Jen and I to realize what a wonderful human Doug was! Our condolences to Jo-Ann, the rest of family and those that loved him…..know that Doug was a very memorable character and a man for others. Tom and Jen Derrett. - Posted by: Tom Derrett (Old neighbor ) on: Dec 16, 2023

  • My deepest condolences to all that were related to or got to know Doug. I believe that in the late 80’s I had the pleasure and privilege of speaking with Doug while sharing a few brewskies while in the great company of big brother John. Although our conversations were brief, and our meetings a few, I always understood with clarity, that Doug was a class act as well as a friend to all. My love to the Brownlee family. - Posted by: Howard (Distant friend) on: Dec 15, 2023

  • Dear Jo-Ann and family, We are so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. He was always up for a conversation as we met on our walks…or a little play with Roxy. He was a joy to be around at the BBQs because he was always full of laughter. I am sure the fire works are going off in the heavens!! Our thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Janet, Bryan, Matthew, Madison and Roxy (Neighborhood friends) on: Dec 15, 2023

  • Doug and I worked at Ford Motor Company in the early 80s. We were both on the road, flying out early Monday to Regina or Saskatoon. We would often end up at the Landmark Inn on Thursday night and stay the night before our fight on Friday morning. There was very little paperwork done on those nights. There was a group dinner and a trip to the bar. Nobody was ever late for the plane because we were anxious to get home. Doug was a great guy and a good companion on the road. Eventually I left Ford to work at a Dealership. I know Doug left some time later and our paths went different ways I can feel the pain for Jo-Anne and the family as I just lost my dear wife, Lori to cancer after 44 years of marriage on December 11th. Rest in Peace my friend. - Posted by: Steve Dennis (Previous co-worker) on: Dec 15, 2023

  • Very sad to hear of Doug’s passing. Growing up across the street and hanging out with Doug’s brother Don, I can still remember watching the Brownlee boys playing street hockey all year round. Good times! - Posted by: John O’Neil (Friend of the family) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jo-Ann and family at this difficult time. Doug had such a gift to chat especially around the neighborhood loop on those beautiful evenings. His bravery in writing his own goodbyes is admirable and his advice first class. Enjoy your ride Doug and keep that spirit! - Posted by: Barb and Dave Christie (Neighbour) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • I did not know Doug but came across his beautifully written passage and could not leave without offering my condolences to his friends and family. He was obviously an incredible human being. I’m in my early 30s I have a 2 year old and have had cancer twice and reading “gotta go now-my rides here” just hit me in a very humbling, heart-filling, tearful but positive type of way. Sending all my love to Doug’s family! Thank you Doug for your wise words and perspective. - Posted by: Brittany Chartrand (Acquaintance) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how it feels. No more pain he's at peace now. I love you Susan. - Posted by: Susan Theresa Doherty ne bradshaw (First cousin) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • I had the pleasure of working with Doug over the years at Shoppers. His kindness, jokes and care for our customers was stellar. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. May your love and memories of Doug be forever in your hearts. Peace, love and blessings. Janet. - Posted by: Janet James (Work colleague ) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • Doug was one of a kind and always had time for a chat whether that be our shared interests in Music, Sports or family. We will miss him dearly and our sympathies to Jo-Ann, Cody, Dana and Ben and Nicole and Chase. Gary and Katie - Posted by: Gary and Katie Anderson (Neighbour and Friends) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • My condolences to you and your family Jo-Ann. - Posted by: Kirby Saunders (Friend of Jo-Ann) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • While I didn't know Doug, his life story pulled at my heart. We had a lot in common: cheer for the Leafs (sometimes), enjoy walks with our respective spouse, treasure family time: and I too, have cancer. The professionals at Cancer Care Manitoba are unbelievable and truly make a difference for those of us who visit on a regular basis. (Love those needles! Ahem) My deepest condolences to Doug's family and big circle of friends. While I didn't know him, his life story has made a difference for me. RIP. - Posted by: Brian Smiley (Admirer) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • So sorry to hear about Doug. seems not long ago we were enjoying a beer in his backyard after a good bike ride - will always have our memories of our frat years together. - Posted by: Greg Loader (frat brother) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • We just want to pass on our deepest condolences to the Brownlee family. Its never easy to lose a parent, but somehow it seems harder to lose a sibling. May you cherish all the great memories and know that he is in a place of peace and comfort. God bless all of you and help you with the grieving and sadness and loss of some one very important in your lives. - Posted by: Sylvia and Darryl Backman (Friends of Tom and Heather Brownlee) on: Dec 14, 2023

  • Doug and I worked together for years until Doug's retirement. Golfed a few rounds together. Shared numerous pints. And I loved talking trash about his Leafs. And hockey in general. Miss you buddy. He cared deeply about the love of his live and family. Glad to know the pain has subsided. Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: Ian Muir (Colleague) on: Dec 14, 2023

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