Austin Douglas - P.Eng. (Ret)

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Passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on Monday March 20, 2023, at the age of 95. Austin was born in Bolton, England. He lived and worked in Australia from 1949-1953 then immigrated to Canada. Predeceased by his wife Jean (Fremming) of 47 years. Austin and Jean met at a Christmas party in 1957 and it was love at first sight. They were engaged in January 1958 and married in May. They settled down to the “serious business of raising 6 kids.” Loving father of Mark (Carol), John (Sandra), Joan (Paul), Margaret (Dennis), Richard (Jennifer), Judy and grandfather to Merryn, Stuart, Amelia, Charles, Sabrina, Jonathan, Joey, Amanda, Keely, Evan, Swanee, and great grandfather to Emma, Addie, Samuel, and Brooks.

Predeceased by parents Herbert and Edith and brother Fr. Herbert S.D.B. and sisters Ursula, Joan and Margaret in England.

Austin obtained his BSc. Tech (Hons) at Manchester in 1948 and his Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering in 1960 at M.I.T.

Austin enjoyed a lifetime career in planning, design, construction and management of airports in Canada, Australia and many other countries while seconded to the World Bank in Washington D.C. He had many fond memories of friends and colleagues in Transport Canada and the Treasury Board.

Austin’s love of aviation led him to obtain his commercial pilot licence WGC 7170. Since retiring, Austin enjoyed his volunteer work at the Aviation Museum. He also enjoyed his weekly bridge sessions with friends.

Many thanks to the Palliative Care Team at the Civic Hospital in Ottawa.

Eucharistic celebration will be held at 1pm on Monday March 27, 2023 at Annunciation of the Lord Church, 2414 Ogilvie Road, Beacon Hill, Ottawa. No visitation at the Funeral Home. Private burial planned at Beechwood Cemetery. Live stream is available at annunciation-ottawa.com.

For those who wish, donations to the Ottawa Heart Institute would be appreciated.

Digital Guestbook

Barb Wilson

My sincerest condolences to the extended Douglas family on the loss of such a beloved man.
My thoughts are with you today.

Joanne York

Wishing all of the Douglas family fond memories of your father/grandfather. Margaret had such funny stories about your Dad and their adventures together. He was so very fortunate to have such loving and caring children and grandchildren. Jeff and I extend our condolences.

Karen Campbell McGagh

My deepest sympathy to the Douglas family. Wishing you peace, comfort, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. My heart goes out to you at this difficult time.

Lynne Hinderks

My thoughts are with all of you. What a wonderful life he had. He was so proud of his family. The Hollybrook crowd had some good times and great memories.

Fernand Sabourin

My condolences to Richard and his family.
I never had the chance to meet Austin but from what I heard from his son, he was a wonderful person and the best father.
R.I.P. Mr.Douglas.

Lita Cassidy

My heartfelt condolences to the entire Douglas family.Your dad has been in my prayers for a long time.He is now in the arms of Jesus, no more suffering,prayers and thoughts will go to the family. I have heard all of your names but Margaret is the one I know well. She has been such a wonderful blessing to me in my losses lately.Always a shoulder to cry on.May you all find peace and comfort in beautiful memories. God bless you all. Sincerely, Lita Cassidy

Lisa Gifford

My deepest sympathies to the entire family of Mr. Douglas. I had the honour and privilege of knowing him for the past 30 years. He was always a true gentleman and a wonderful conversationalist. He will most definitely be missed.

Pierre Pinet and Linda King

Linda and I send you all our deepest sympathy on the passing of Austin. I’ve always felt a very special connection to the Douglas family … hard to believe we first all met in 1971 when I befriended Mark in grade 8 and was quickly adopted by Jean as one of the clan. Ever since, Austin has been a part of my life and I grieve with all of you. Although a sad time, I have to smile when I think of all the great memories I have involving Austin and Jean. With loads of love, thinking of you all.

Nancy Rubenstein

I wish to express sympathy to the Douglas family. I only met Austin a few times but Margaret shared stories about her father’s interests, hobbies and early adventures. As he aged, he was very fortunate to have the love and support of his children and grandchildren, as well as friends. May your memories comfort you.