It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Douglas
Peter Walmsley, son of the late James and Florence Walmsley, in his 96th
year after a brief illness. Predeceased by his son Robert, his daughter-in-law
Julie, and sister Joan Berry. He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley, loving
daughter Linda Fletcher (John), cherished grandchildren Paul (Melissa),
Jennifer (Brent), Mark, Scott and Richard, great-grandson Benjamin, brother
Jim and sisters Sharon and Barb, and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Towcester, Northamptonshire, England in 1919. A fine musician,
Doug was working towards a piano degree when WWII broke out. He served
4 ½ years in the RCAF in London, England. He graduated from the University
of Manitoba with a medical degree in 1951. In 1952, Doug married the love
of his life, Shirley. Shirley and Doug moved to Bronte (Oakville) in 1954
where he practiced medicine until retiring in 1995. He was the family doctor
of the first "test tube twins" in Canada and was present for their birth.
Throughout his career, he delivered over 500 babies in Oakville. He was a
passionate, caring and dedicated doctor who touched the lives of many
generations of Oakville patients and was an inspiration to all. After retiring,
he worked as a volunteer at the Oakville Hospital in the dialysis unit and as a
pianist in the rehabilitation ward until this past July. In 2009, he won the
Oakville Community Spirit award. In 2014, he was the recipient of the OMA
2014 Physicians Care Award for Halton.
He was a very spiritual man, and a dedicated member of Walton United
Church for 60 years where he was a trustee and served on many committees.
Doug was a member of the OMA (Ontario Medical Association) for 62 years
and was also a member of the Probus Club of Oakville.
Doug loved fishing, camping and canoe trips. An avid runner, Doug
competed in many races up to and including marathons and won many
awards for his age category. Until very recently Doug could be found
swimming laps in indoor pools in Oakville. He had a passion for music,
always challenging himself with new repertoire and, up until three weeks
ago, Doug played the piano daily.
A special thank you to the wonderful and caring staff and volunteers of Ian
Anderson House and to Dr. Kathy Gray.
Visitation will be at Kopriva Taylor Funeral Home, Oakville on Monday,
September 8th, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
A celebration of the life of this extraordinary man will be held at Walton
United Church, 2489 Lakeshore Road W., Oakville on Tuesday, September
9th at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oakville
Hospital or Walton United Church.