John Douglas (Doug) McDonald:
It is with sadness and a sense of peace that we announce the passing of a great man, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. John Douglas (Doug) McDonald passed away in the early morning on Monday May 25th at the Elk Valley hospital surrounded by his family and friends.
Doug was born in Okotoks, Alberta on July 3, 1920 and attended school in Roosville and later, in Fernie B.C. He then went on to work throughout his life on the McDonald Ranch with his father, brother and, in later years, his sons. Doug married Jessie Britney on July 4, 1945 who predeceased him in 2007.
When Doug started ranching and farming fruit, he supplied local stores in Fernie until he began to build the sawmill business and eventually developed the Phillips Creek Hydro plant or, “Mac Hydro.” This development supplied and continues to supply power to sawmill and houses on the ranch. Other achievements included being one of the original founders of the Fernie Ski Hill, a school board trustee, and a director of the ILMA, Waldo Stockbreeders, and the BC Cattleman’s Association.
Doug was also a loyal supporter of the 4-H programs in the area and often purchased a steer at the sale. He regularly attended church in Eureka, Montana and in Grasmere and was a very strong Mason, often travelling to many events with his brethren.
Doug loved music and spent many hours entertaining at dances and family gatherings playing his violin. In his later years he played his violin at church services in Eureka nearly every Sunday.
Doug is survived by many family members including his younger siblings, sons Barrie (Judy-Lou), Glenn (Ramona), Ian (Mary-Ann) and daughter-in-law Peri-Dawn. He had ten grand-children and, six great-grandchildren.
The funeral service for Doug will be held Monday June 8th at 11:00 AM at the United Church in Fernie, which is located at 201-2nd Avenue.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Gizeh Shriners of BC & Yukon, Transportation Fund, 3550 Wayburne Drive, Burnaby, BC V5G 3K9.
Messages & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.