Gordon Douglas Fraser

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Doug grew up on a small farm near Millet, Alberta. When he was 17 he joined the Canadian Armed Forces, Lord Strathcona’s Horse, in the Armoured Corps as a Sherman tank driver. This was a transformational experience for him. He was thrilled about this period of his life and always had colorful stories to tell about it.

In 1952 Doug began his career in the finance industry and then married Flora Semenzie in 1953. While raising their two children they lived in several different locations in Alberta and B.C. Community involvement was important to him and he volunteered extensively in the Anglican Church, various service clubs, the Cub Scouts and the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. He also ran a model airplane club where, under his guidance, boys were able to build and fly their own model planes.

Doug’s passion for all things related to flying continued to deepen as his life progressed. He moved from flying models to obtaining his pilot’s license, then a commercial license plus a flight instructor rating. When he was 47 he took a courageous leap and set aside his finance career to begin a new life chapter as a pilot. He retired as a flight instructor at Mount Royal College when he was 69.

A few years after Flora’s death in 1980, Doug met his future wife, Bridge, through a mutual interest in flying. They have supported each other for 42 years.

Doug was a consistently friendly, happy and content man. He was a wonderful storyteller and shared many of his experiences in that way. He was also a great listener and was able to offer sage advice. His philosophy about raising kids was that “You have to listen to figure out where this child really wants to go and then find the best way to help them ultimately get there.” His support, stories and wise thoughts will be missed.

Doug is survived by his wife Bridge; his children Gordon Fraser (Hessy) and Kim Finvers (Ivars), his granddaughter Kristen Finvers, his 2 step-sons: Carl Kalveram (Lori) and Dave Kalveram (Jen) and their three children; Sarah (Matt), Camille, and Treyton.

At Doug’s request there will be no service. If friends wish, donations may be made to a charity of their choosing.