September 14, 1956 - February 16, 2019
With saddened hearts, we gently pass our most treasured loved one, Doug, into the Heavenly hands of God and back to the waiting arms of his Mom and Dad. "Dougie" left us on February 16th, at the age of 62 years, with his sister Lynda and brother-in-law Wayne at his side. Doug was born in Red Deer AB, on September 14th, 1956, to Marguerite and George (Buster) Houseman. He grew up on 46th Street, where he frequently visited and was always welcomed into the homes of neighbours. Riding the bus, he attended Parkland School from ages 6 to 21. Over the years, Dougie developed many school friendships, including Elaine, Darlene, Darryl and many others. He joined Parkland Class Group Home in 1992, where he lived with roommates Kelly, Elaine and later, Jonathan. Doug always looked forward to coming home and spent every week end and extended holidays with Mom, Dad, Lynda and Wayne. They all treasured their times together. Doug had a remarkable memory for names, faces and birthdays. His favourite things in life included socializing, camping with the "Group of Seven," Wii, dancing and playing any game to win!! He listened to all types of music on his CDs, and loved basketball, bowling and mini golf. Being an avid fan of sports, he was frequently found reading the newspaper stats, discussing them with the staff before printing them on to his own papers, for hours at a time. He referred to this as his "chores." Doug easily entertained himself. Birthdays and Christmas celebrations were always highlights, especially when he got "presents." Doug's love was unconditional. His smile and zest for the simplest things in life brought him great joy. He was always gentle and kind.
Doug is survived by his sister Lynda, Best Buddy Wayne and numerous relatives and friends. Thank you Mom and Dad for such a special Brother.
Doug was predeceased by his Dad (2009) and his Mom(2014), and special Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Special thanks to Parkland Class staff for Doug's care at 27 Dustin. Thank you to Dr. Konynenbelt for your support, especially over the last few years. To the Red Deer Hospital staff of Unit 32, we express out heartfelt thanks. To our special friend Karen, who has always been there for us, providing love, support and many hours of her time to help out.
We love you.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Sunnybrook United Church, 12 - Stanton St, Red Deer AB, on Saturday, February 23, 2019, at 1:00 pm.
We love you Doug!
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Parkland Community Living and Support Society (Parkland Class), 6010 - 45 Ave, Red Deer AB T4N 3M4 or to the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation (Unit 32 - Palliative Care), 3942 - 50 A Ave, Red Deer, AB T4N 4E7. Condolences to Doug's family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net.
MEANINGFUL MEMORIALS FUNERAL SERVICE
Red Deer 587-876-4944