June 27, 1935 – June 6, 2019
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas Charles McIlraith, our beloved husband, father, and grandpa, on June 6, 2019, at the age of 83, after a short battle with esophageal cancer. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Bea, son David (Audrey), daughters Christina, Cathy (Stu) and Janet (Phil), granddaughters Hélène and Gabi (the apples of his eye), brothers-in-law Bob Lamond and Bob Hausegger, and nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Helena McIlraith, and sister Lois Richardson.
Doug was born in St. Jean, Quebec on June 27, 1935, but spent much of his childhood in southeastern Ontario. He was active in service clubs, student council groups, high school drama (awarded the Best Actor of the Year trophy in 1952), and extra-curricular activities, including vocals in a quartet and playing piano. Doug finished high school in 1953 and believed he had “learned a little about a lot of things”. Doug had a passion and ability to entertain people. His knack in describing and explaining things to others was his true calling and there was no better career for Doug than broadcasting.
In high school, Doug started at Radio CJBQ in Belleville. After moving to Vancouver to be closer to his sister Lois, he worked at CFUN and CJOR, and then CKOV in Kelowna. He “heeded the siren call” in 1961 and joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) in Edmonton working in both television and radio, but his true passion was radio.
Doug married Beatrice Lamond, a Winnipeg girl also working for CBC in Edmonton, and transferred to Winnipeg in 1967 to raise their family. Doug travelled the country covering major events, including the 1967 Centennial Voyageur Canoe Pageant and the 1976 Montreal Olympics. His last posting was as co-host of CBC InformationRadio in Winnipeg, retiring in 1990.
Doug led a very active volunteer life as a convenor, coach, and board member of hockey, soccer, ringette, and track & field. He officiated at numerous international-level track & field competitions. In recognition of his years of volunteering and multiple sport involvement, he was named a CKY Sportstar of the Week and Volunteer of the Yearby Manitoba Sports Federation in the 80’s.
An avid sports enthusiast, Doug often listened to television, radio, and internet broadcasts simultaneously to follow his beloved baseball and hockey teams, and his favorite broadcasters. He began running marathons at the age of 44, with a best time of 3:28. He enjoyed a very long, active and happy retirement, gardening and hosting family gatherings. His daily walk to Timmies, where he would meet his daughters and friends, also brought him much joy.
Special thanks to Dr. Tim Hiebert and the staff on 3 South at Grace Hospital for their compassionate care. According to Doug’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no formal service. In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
“Nice to see you.” “Nice to be seen.”
Rest in peace.
