Feb 17, 1929 - Feb 18, 2018
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. John loved his family and friends so much and didn't want to leave us. He was able to stay at home in White Rock, BC until his passing on February 18, one day after his 89th birthday.
Born in Whitley Bay, England, eldest son of the late Michael and Isabella Doogan, John served as a Peacekeeper and Paratrooper in the Middle East after WW2. He also served as a Marine Engineer with the British Merchant Navy and immigrated to Canada in 1956.
Married in 1959 to his beloved wife Donna, they moved to Ontario to raise their 4 children and resided in Kingston for 24 years where he was employed as a Maintenance Mechanic with Alcan. An early retirement in 1987 brought him and Donna back to BC, where they lived on Panorama Ridge, Surrey for 14 years and finally White Rock for the past 18 years.
Survived by his wife Donna of 59 years, 4 children: Darlene Doogan-Smith (Mike), Jo-Anne Vander Ploeg (John), Michael Doogan (Mateya) and Cheryl Wickson (Dennis) and 11 grandchildren: Adam, Alexander, Rachelle, Daniel, Michelle (David), Brooke, Amanda, Paige, Bradley, Matthew and Chantel. His family was the pride and joy of his life.
John was known for his involvement in Toastmasters, Rotary, the Kent Street Choristers, the Kent Street Computer Club, his home brewing business Mini Pubs and the 240 Legion, where they attended Friday night dinner dances for many years. John was funny, wise, patient and kind. He had a generous smile and was always optimistic. As a "little immigrant boy," John was proud of his many accomplishments and was a true Canadian.
On behalf of the family, we would like to acknowledge the care community of Dr. Larry Darby, Fraser Health and Peace Arch Hospital.
There will be a Celebration of Life held for John at the Royal Canadian Legion, Crescent Branch 240, 2643 128th Street, Surrey on Saturday March 31 from 11-2 pm.