Doug was the only child of the late Charles and Mabel Williams of Ottawa and grew up in the family market garden business, Rideau Gardens, in Ottawa South. He graduated from both the ’41 Diploma course and the ’49 OAC degree course at what is now the University of Guelph. In between, Doug joined the RCAF and was stationed at Leeming, England as part of the 429 Squadron (Buffalo Squadron), flying first Halifax, then later, Lancaster bombers. He married Wilma McDaniel on December 15, 1943, two weeks before going overseas. He was predeceased by Wilma, his wife of over 70 years.
Doug had a significant career serving agriculture in Ontario as a senior civil servant in the Ontario Department of Agriculture. During his tenure as Chairman of the Ontario Food Council, he created the slogan “Foodland Ontario”, which is still being used today, indicating to consumers that the produce is Ontario grown.
Doug leaves his children, Gail Rickard (Donald), Joan Candy (Bill) and Ruth Lowe (David). His beloved grandchildren are Alan Rickard (Rochelle) and Karen Rickard; Emily Candy (Patrick Giroux), Pamela Andersen (John) and Glenn Candy. Doug enjoyed holding, and knowing his six great grandchildren, Everett, Norah and Stevie Rickard; Jeremy and Audrey Giroux; and Lajla Andersen. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews and many friends.
Friends may call at the Turner & Porter “Peel” Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga (Hwy 10 north of QEW) on Monday December 16 at 10 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m.
Diabetes Canada is the organization the family has chosen for those who wish to make an in memoriam donation in Doug’s memory.