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Gone too soon. After a hard fought battle with cancer, Doug passed away peacefully on May 19th with family by his side. Loving son of Gladys and the late James Johnston, caring brother to Louise Nicholson (Murray) and Donna Williams-Lindekugel (Jon), proud uncle to Marina and Julia Williams, and a loyal friend to many. Doug was also the devoted owner of his precious black lab, Buck. Doug had his canine companion for over 16 years and missed him immensely when Buck was gone.
Doug grew up in East York, Ontario, where he developed lifelong friendships. He spent several years in Pickering before settling on Murphy Lane in Ajax, where many more friendships were established.
Doug worked his entire career at Ford dealerships starting with Donway Ford and then moving to Heritage Ford in the parts department. He then joined the team at Formula Ford where he worked for many years as Assistant Parts Manager. Doug gained the respect of colleagues and customers as being one of the best in business. It seemed fitting that Doug's final car was his dream car, the Mustang GT.
Doug had a love of music, especially classic rock, and knew the lyrics to all of his favourite tunes. Doug also loved golf and hockey. He rarely missed a Toronto Maple Leaf game and was the initiator of countless playoff pools. Doug also loved to cook and continued to expand his culinary capabilities. He was always happy to fire up the barbeque when friends arrived.
Doug will be remembered for his sense of humour, loyalty, kindness and his wonderful smile. Doug had a place in many hearts.
The Johnston family would like to thank Corrine Snider and Dr Mike Borchuk for their care and compassion. Their understanding and unwavering support allowed Doug to pass at home with friends and family.
A private family service will be held graveside on Tuesday May 25th. A celebration of Doug’s life will be held in Ajax, in summer 2021, once restrictions are lifted. If desired donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Animal Guardian Society.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
My condolences to Doug's family and friends. I do not know if Doug ever knew the impact that he had on my family's lives. In August 2019 we were fortunate enough to find the perfect townhome for my family and we put in an offer. The bidding came down to us and another family so we wrote Doug a letter telling him about who we were and why we wanted to buy his house. He ultimately picked us and we moved in. He was always so nice to us and greeted us with a smile and asked how we were. By him picking us he changed our lives forever and I cannot thank him enough for that. I want everyone to know what a wonderful man he was and how he will be missed by everyone that he touched. We miss you Doug, rest in peace.
Our deepest condolences From the schnitzel shack you are very missed
So sorry for your loss Gladys. He was a great person and will be missed by many
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
The Animal Guardian Society (TAGS)
To the Johnston Family, I was so very sorry to hear about Doug's passing. My very sincere condolences for your loss and thinking of you all. Dianne
Deepest sympathies to his Mom, Mrs Johnston, his sisters and their Families. My niece Josee talked so often and highly of Doug, I almost felt like I knew him personally. Sweet man. His suffering is over and may he Rest In Peace! 🙏
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
My deepest sympathies to Doug's FAMILY. I feel your pain to loose a son and a brother. I met Doug when I became his neighbour 3 years ago on Murphy Lane. Right then he was very welcoming to me. We then became great friends. Doug had a heart of gold. He would always ask me if I needed any help. I will remember the fun we had building our backyard fences while listening to Classic Rock music. I saw Doug suffer and in pain for the past months. I know that he is in good care now. DOUG I will miss you very much. Cheers. CHRISTINE 💗🍻
My deepest sympathies to Doug’s family. I met Doug every time I visited my sister Josée in Ajax. The three of us listening, singing and dancing to classic rock music. All the New Year’s Eve we spent together. Doug was also a great chef. He taught me how to make pizza on pita bread. What a hit that was. Delicious. I will always remember how talks about hockey. You knew all the players and stats and I was always so interested in hearing about it. Cause I love hockey as well. I will miss you Doug. Danielle xo
To the Johnston Family, My sincere condolences on the loss of a son and brother. My thoughts are with you during this sad time. Susan Nicholson
Donna, we are so sorry for the loss of your brother. May your happy memories of him comfort you during this most difficult time. Our deepest condolences.
Our deepest sympathies to his Mom Mrs Johnston and all the family. Doug was a nice guy , we met him a few times while we visited Josée in Ajax
My sincere sympathies to Doug's FAMILY who loved him so much. DOUG, I will miss your smile, listening to your reactions during a Leaf game. You teaching me about Classic Rock music. You knew all the words to every songs. Our cooking together and our Summer trips and the list goes on..... Living with you as a FRIEND for almost 2 years. I am grateful I was helpful and supportive until almost the end of your battle. Our friendship, I will FOREVER remember. Love you and will miss you so much. JOSEE❤
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
Louise, Murray and family My thoughts are with you at this time. Siblings are a special bond, whose loss is deeply felt. I am hopeful that the many happy memories of growing up together will help ease your loss.
Going to miss you buddy but you will never be forgotten Thanks for always being there
Doug was a long time friend. He will be missed fiercely. He is loved tremendously. Rest In Peace sweet soul.
We were so sorry to hear of Doug's passing & we send along our sympathies to his Mom & sisters & their families. Doug grew up just down the street from us on Yardley Ave & his friendship with Kevin was a very special one, that friendship continued his whole life. Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this very sad time. Reg & Betty Anne
Dear Gladys and family, I am so sorry to hear of this loss in your family. How sad it must be for you to lose your son. Thinking of you and wishing you strength. Anne Burnham
Gladly and family, Nora and I send you our deepest heartfelt sympathy. Your fond memories of Doug will be with you forever. Please take good care of yourself and hopefully we can al meet when the world is safe again.