DOUGLAS J. GRANT

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DOUGLAS J. GRANT Doug died accidentally, August 26, while bike riding near his home in Lorette, MB. He is survived by his parents, Charles and Jeannine; brothers, Ken, Robert, Keith (Leanne) and sister Angela (Charles). Doug was born in Portage La Prairie, MB, March 24, 1962, and was raised in River Heights in Winnipeg. As a member of an athletic family, he participated in several sports while growing up. He was proud to play goal for his hockey team at Sir John Franklin, and enjoyed sharing fond memories of those days with all his friends. Doug also played a spirited game of Lacrosse. In 1981, Doug was paralysed in an automobile accident. True to his competitive spirit, he quickly became involved with Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association. He began his career with MWSA during his rehabilitation by playing wheelchair rugby. He went on to win the World Championship Marathon in Osaka, Japan, in 1987. Dougs intensity and dedication to his training program set a great example for all future wheelchair athletes. In 1988, Doug accepted the Technical Director position with MWSA, and was promoted to Executive Director in 1990. His passion for sports motivated all who were involved in wheelchair sport. He always had time for his members from the junior programs through to the senior bowling league. One of his proudest moments occurred in the spring of 2001 when The Manitoba Rolling Thunder captured the Canadian Wheelchair Basketball League national championship. Dougs quick sense of humour and endless generosity endeared him to all who knew him. In his leisure time, he loved to read books on a variety of topics, or spend time with his dog. He could often be seen around Lorette, a community he truly loved, riding his bike and chatting with friends. He was also fond of travelling and made many friends around the globe. Doug will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 31, 10:00 a.m. at the Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodiere Blvd., Winnipeg, MB. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association, 200 Main St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 4M2, in memory of Douglas J. Grant.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 31, 2001