James Douglas Jenkins

April 5, 1925 – August 26, 2023

Doug passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of August 26th at the age of 98. He suffered a minor stroke and did not have the strength to recover.

Predeceased by his loving wife Dorothy in 2005. Survived by his sons Bill (Katie), Don (Connie), and Jim. Grandchildren Dave, Renee, Jeth, Selena, and great-grandson Jacob. Also his sister Bunny (102 years old) and many nieces and nephews.

Doug was born in Coleman, Alberta and lived there with his family. He joined the Navy in January 1944. Five months later, he was serving on a landing craft at the forefront of the Allied invasion at Juno Beach on D-Day—he was just 19. He served in the Navy until December 1945, and then returned to Coleman where he worked in the coal mines. He married Dorothy in September 1946, and they lived in Coleman and began raising a family. In 1954, he re-enlisted in the Navy and was stationed in Victoria. He also spent 1964-66 in CFB Cornwallis and was sent to Portsmouth, England for 2 years as a training advisor to the Royal Navy. Doug was a decorated war hero. He had an exemplary record; rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. He retired in December 1974 after 25 years of service.

Doug was a loving husband and father. He was a gentleman and a gentle man. He was kind and generous and the type of guy that everybody liked—very genuine, easy-going, and down to earth. He was a really good golfer, too. Since he was 72, he shot his age or lower in 18 separate years. Bill was with him when he shot a 93 at the age of 94!

Over the years, he had health issues and every time the awesome people in our health care system have treated him, compassionately cared for him, and helped him get healthy again. Doug has spent the last 8 years at Parkwood Manor in Coquitlam. The management and staff are an exceptional group of people and have always treated him like a VIP. He loved it there.

At the end, he was taken to Eagle Ridge Hospital—an amazing experience of efficiency, professionalism, and loving care. So thank you, again, to the fireman, ambulance crew, nurses, doctors, techs, aides, and care workers. You are all spectacular people.

REST IN PEACE DAD – WE WILL THINK OF YOU EVERY DAY.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialportcoquitlam.com for the Jenkins family.