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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
Served: 13 Apr 1962 - 20 May 1986
GRANT, Douglas James - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas James Grant, after a arduous four-year battle with lung cancer. He passed away on March 21, 2026 at Victoria General Hospital.
Doug was born on February 23, 1944, in Woodstock, New Brunswick. In 1962, he proudly joined the Navy, beginning a 25-year career of service to his country. Just a few short years later, in 1964, he married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Julia Coffey.
The military life took Doug and Julia across many places, each one becoming part of their family's story—from Halifax to Fredericton, to Washington, DC, where Doug served with distinction as part of the Canadian Embassy staff, and eventually back home to Canada. After his years of service, they settled in Victoria, where Doug would continue to build a life rooted in community and connection.
Following his military career, Doug worked as a bookkeeper and office manager for two law firms between 1986 and 1990, forming friendships that would last a lifetime. In the last part of his life, he worked as a manager of the Esquimalt Legion, a role he held for nearly 30 years. Doug was more than a manager—he was a steady presence, and a friend to countless veterans. His compassion and commitment to helping others did not go unnoticed, and in 2002, he was honored with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal for his outstanding service to the community.
For countless attendees, Remembrance Day in Esquimalt simply would not have been the same without him. A dedicated member of the Esquimalt community, Doug served as the Master of Ceremonies for the Remembrance Day ceremony for several decades. With a steady voice and deep respect for those who served, he helped guide generations through moments of reflection, honour, and remembrance.
Doug had a lifelong passion for sports and the outdoors. As a young man, he loved hunting and fishing, and he carried that appreciation for activity and camaraderie throughout his life. He was an avid softball player and devoted coach, generously giving his time to mentor youth in softball, baseball, and minor hockey. These last years his baseball passion manifested through equally cheering and criticizing his beloved Blue Jays.
In later years, Doug became a familiar figure in the world of competitive shuffleboard. He regularly participated in the Canadian Shuffleboard Championships, earning numerous titles and forming cherished friendships along the way. Whether on the field, the rink, or the shuffleboard court, Doug's competitive spirit was always matched by his sportsmanship.
Doug leaves behind his beloved children: son Peter (Oana) and daughter Paula (Tom), and his grandchildren Haiden, Mackenzie, Tolan, Brady, Lee-Amber, and Jamie. He was predeceased by his son James "Jimmy" (Linda), whom he held close in his heart always. Although Julia and him parted ways some years ago, they have continued to be a part of each other's life and support one another every way they could, until Doug's last moments.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in Doug's memory.
A celebration of life will be held at 3 pm on May 30, 2026, at the Chiefs and Petty Officers' Mess in Esquimalt. (The Victoria Times Colonist 11 Apr 2026)
Ships served in: CFB GAGETOWN CDLS WASHINGTON
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