Douglas Milton Fligg

FLIGG, Douglas Milton
February 15, 1923 - April 23, 2024
A man of remarkable character, Doug slipped away peacefully on April 23rd, at the age of 101, nine days after a stroke left him greatly diminished. Admired and respected by all whose lives he touched, he was predeceased in 2021 by Norma, his beloved wife of 69 years, and in 2018 by Edna, his cherished sister, with whom he shared many memories of their early years in Glenside, Saskatchewan. Doug will be remembered and deeply missed by daughter Margaret, son Graham (Cynthia), grand-children Cameron (Kelsey), Deanna (Joshua) and Allison (Lawren), and his great-grand-daughters Sydney, Ruby, and Zoey, whom he adored. Doug also will be missed by niece Sandy, extended family, and the many with whom he enjoyed lasting friendships founded on his gentle manner, substantial intellect, and ever-present wit.

Early years in rural 'Saskabush' forged in Doug fond memories of a quintessentially Canadian prairie childhood; colourful stories were often retold with vivid accuracy and delight, the product of an amazing memory that never faded. When he was 10, Doug's parents Milton and Pearl left the 'bald prairie' behind, resettling the family in Chilliwack BC, following a journey by car in 1933 in the midst of the dustbowl and Great Depression. Doug never forgot his humble beginnings, remaining grateful throughout his life for his enduring good fortune, often reminiscing that upon relocating to the Chilliwack Valley, the family had found paradise.

Attending Chilliwack High School created more happy memories, where Doug excelled at multiple sports while serving as Student Council President. Following his Grade 13 graduation in 1942, Doug enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, training at Vancouver Technical School as a Wireless Mechanic, followed by more military training in Quebec. Postings to Jericho Beach and Coal Harbour RCAF Stations preceded his 1945 overseas posting to the south coast of England, where Doug maintained aircraft radio installations as the war effort concluded. Awaiting his 1946 repatriation, a visit to Ireland left a lasting imprint before he boarded the Queen Elizabeth 1, converted as a crowded troop ship, to share a homeward passage with Winston Churchill.

Between 1946 and 1950, Doug earned a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from UBC, thereafter moving to Victoria to commence a lifelong career with the BC Forest Service. Within a short time, founded on an enduring love of badminton, Doug met Norma at the Victoria Tennis and Racquet Club, marrying her in 1952. A new home was proudly realized on a former daffodil farm at the foot of Mount Tolmie in then-rural Victoria, and Doug spent hours transforming the property into a landscaped oasis. Son Graham arrived in 1955 and daughter Margaret in 1957. Though Doug's field work for the BC Forest Service often took him away to the 'bush', an appreciation for his chosen province's abundant beauty was forged and conveyed to his children during many memorable family vacations.

Following retirement in 1984, Doug remained active and engaged, enjoying travel, pursuit of the organ, and many years performing with the Arion Male Choir. Doug and Norma shared an inseparable bond which they celebrated in a long and happy life together. Frequently remarking he had no regrets, Doug was grateful that fortune had given him the satisfaction of a long life well-lived. Enjoying the comfort of his own home until the end, he was grateful along with the family for his care-giver Taeko's wonderful assistance. The family also thanks the staff of Unit S5 at Victoria General Hospital, who provided empathetic care in Doug's final hours.

Memories and thoughts may be shared at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com. Donations in Doug's memory to a charity of personal choice will be gratefully appreciated. A private family memorial gathering will be held at a later date.