In Memoriam: Douglas W. Youra

Doug passed peacefully away at the Dulcina Hospice in Calgary on March 18, 2023, at the age of 74, five months after being diagnosed with cancer. Doug was in peace in his last weeks, surrounded by love from his wife, Judith, close family and friends. He found peace and joy in God’s words.

He was a dedicated husband and loving father. He leaves behind his wife, Judith; his children, Chris and Niki; his siblings, Jack and Debbie; nephews and nieces, and cousins. Doug was predeceased by his parents Walter and Evelyn.

Doug was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, USA. From an early age, he was active and curious. His curiosity and his manual skills led him to build an airplane with his father during his teen years. This experience filled him with pride and led him to study aeronautical mechanical engineering at SAIT in Calgary, graduating with a provincial vocational award in 1987. He made his career in aircraft non-destructive testing (NDT) for Canadian Airlines. When his work for the airline ended, he continued to share his passion as an NDT professor at SAIT, taking great joy in shaping the next generations of professionals. 

After retiring as an instructor at SAIT, Doug volunteered at organizations such as The Military Museum, The Children's Cottage, The Kerby Centre, and with the Calgary Space Workers, where in 2017 he met his best friend and later wife, Judith.

Doug was a mature Open Studies student at the University of Calgary. He began taking courses at UCalgary in the winter of 2018 and had taken courses as recently as spring 2022. He was an enthusiastic and committed student (based on what his advisers wrote). His interests focused mainly on arts (sociology, religious studies) and science (anthropology).

Doug’s avid interest in science, culture, travels, cars, motorcycles, and airplanes kept him active until his last days. He built many fun projects, for instance motorcycles, and “The Wet-Sled.” Those projects brought together friends and family and created joyful memories. There are so many things that could be said about Doug, he had a huge heart, he was constantly striving to be a better person every day and motivate and support others.

Doug was in touch with his inner child throughout his life; twinkles of joy in his eyes when participating in kids' activities, birthday parties, etc. He was always the life of a party, with his vivacious personality, quick wit, intelligence, humour, and sui generis ideas allowed him to cultivate true friendships that accompanied him for many years, and supported, motivated, and accompanied him in his very difficult days.

Sincere thanks to his family doctor, who always remained close, supporting him in the most difficult moments, to the Alberta Health Palliative Team (nurses, physiotherapists, spiritual counsellor, social worker), and to the great team at Dulcina Hospice (doctors, nurses, resident assistants, social worker, and chaplain), who with so much love and dedication alleviated his pain and helped him to find peace.

Doug's wishes were to be cremated and released at a place that was dear to his heart, where he spent time with friends sailing. He did not want a memorial service. However, if you would like to make a memorial donation, please contact Dulcina Hospice (+1 587-230-5500, Address: 110 EvansPark Manor NW, Calgary, Alta., T3P 0N4).

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Doug please visit his online obituary. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.