We are saddened to share that Doug Huff passed away on July 27, 2023 in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 82 years.
Doug was born in Vulcan, Alberta on August 28, 1940, the second son of Leonard and Violet Huff. He grew up on the farm where he learned the value of hard work, as well as the joy of being outdoors, and playing sports.
He joined the Canadian Navy in 1962 and served 20 years with Suprad Communications 291, a specialist unit that was very important during the Cold War. Doug was posted to many different locations during his service: Cornwallis NS, Churchill MB, Bermuda (where he married Jenny and Sue was born), Inuvik NWT (where Kris was born), Ottawa ON, and Gander NF. He also served several 6-month postings at Alert NU, the northernmost continuously inhabited settlement in the world. Doug rose to the rank of Warrant Officer. He made life long friends in the military, including his best friend, Blair Argue.
Doug was always clear that he would be “settling out west” after his military service. When he retired in 1982, the family moved to Spruce Grove AB and he worked with his older brother Marvin in his ice maker and greens keeping business. Together, Marvin and Doug created some of the best curling ice in Edmonton and area.
Doug married his second wife and hometown sweetheart Bette (nee Pearson) in 1989. They lived together in Spruce Grove, Barrhead and High River AB. They enjoyed dancing and curling bonspiels together.
In 2016, Doug’s health began to decline and he moved into the Spruce Grove Good Samaritan Center to be “closer to his girls”. During this time, Sue and Kris took advantage of the many opportunities to reconnect with their Dad, watching baseball games and crime shows on TV, enjoying the birds outside his window, eating sweets, and chatting. Sue and Kris thank the staff for their kindness and care.
Doug was known for his sense of humour, his love of the Toronto Bluejays, and his salty language. He was dearly loved by his two sisters, Donna and Gail. Doug is predeceased by his brothers, Marvin and Merle.
On May 30, Doug fell and broke his hip. Despite the efforts of many caring healthcare professionals, he never recovered. He died peacefully and we are grateful that his suffering is at an end.
Doug is survived by two daughters, Sue Huff (Kevin Tokarsky) and Kris Reay (Barrie Harrison); wife, Bette; two sisters, Donna Beagle (Gary) and Gail Tyssen (Doug); and five grandchildren. In memory of Doug, please make donations if you wish to any charity or organization that supports veterans.
A service and reception will be held in Lomond, Alberta at the end of August. Anyone who wishes to attend is welcome. Contact Sue or Kris for details.
Joe and Dolly says
Sorry for your loss Sue, Kris and families. We had many good times with you two and your Dad. Playing cards and just being weird. Great memories
Kim says
I’m so sad that Doug has passed. He had several health challenges over the years. He was always a strong man. Our families were very close for a long time and I am grateful to them. Rest in peace dear man
Joscelyn Baker says
I have many fond memories of Mr. Huff from Gander NL and from a few visits to Spruce Grove AB. In Gander, how good natured he was when Sue and I were snorting with laughter while washing dishes and I broke a glass, the way he convinced me for at least a few days that the stuffed rabbit with horns on his wall was real (the jackalope), the mixed cassette tape he made for Sue when he was away at Alert, and how proud he was of my best friend Sue when she got top grades. He was just the right amount of interested when I visited, so that I felt noted but not under the microscope. Above all I’m grateful that, together with Mrs. Huff, he created two wonderful daughters, one of whom I was lucky enough to meet in my grade and whose influence on my life has been a constant, warm current providing comfort and joy.
Adrian M. Leske says
Dear Sue and Kris: Please accept my condolences on the death of your Dad. I know it has not been easy for you over the last few years, and I honour and respect the care you have given to him since he moved into the Good Samaritan Care Centre in Spruce Grove.
It is almost two years since your wonderful mother, Jenny, died and whom we all miss. My heart goes out to you both and my love.
Adrian
Harold and Norma Magnuson says
Our sincere sympathy to all the family.
Ray Lebeau says
To Bette, Sue, Kris, Family Members & Friends,
The members of the Canadian Forces Supplementary Radio (SUPRAD) System Oldtimers Association were deeply saddened by the news of Doug’s passing. All those who had the privilege of proudly serving with Doug, will forever remember all of the laughs and good times that were shared. There are lots of funny remembrances that could be told and there is no doubt that we will be sharing them the next time we have a get-together at Canadian Forces Station Leitrim. For sure, Doug will be remembered as a great guy and as an excellent team mate to have in curling and fastball. Doug truly valued the friends he made while he was in the military, Blair Argue, being his closest. Because of Doug’s many friendships, he became a welcomed Life Member of our SUPRAD Oldtimers Association. At the CFS Leitrim All Ranks Mess, there is a Tree of Life located in the entranceway. A leaf on the tree bears Doug’s name. Now, a small bronze cross will be placed on his leaf. When we look at Doug’s leaf, we will remember the best times, the valued friendship we had with each other, the fun, the laughter, the good life. We will remember the life Doug lived when he was strong. Please know that as members of your extended military family, we will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will miss you Doug. Rest in Peace.
‘Friends Forever’
Maegen Stout says
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Doug. He always will have a place in my heart with the many good memories of him when I was little. ❤️
Charlotte Hunt says
I’m sorry for you and your family’s loss Sue. Thank you for sharing your dad’s story.
Randy Guidinger says
My family is very sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. Doug was a huge influence around the curling club in Spruce Grove. He always had time for anyone, whether it be just a chat or a couple pointers. He taught my children Little Rock’s curling, he and Betty are beautiful folks. Cheers to Doug! With Love, Randy and Carrie Guidinger.