Sorry to hear about his passing! I remember Doug as my music teacher in 1967 at Hobbs junior high school on Taunton road Hampton! He was a great music teacher? I loved singing the song 
" Yellow Bird" in class with him! He will be missed! 
Yours Truly
Richard Cowles

Hello, 
My name is Dominique and I was Doug’s Dental Hygienist for 36yrs. First with Dr Wagner then with Colborne Family Dental in Oshawa.
 We at Colborne Family Dental will miss Doug’s fabulous personality and infectious laugh.It was a pleasure to have him as a client of ours. He always had a kind word to say and had a joyful take on life.
Our condolences to his family at this difficult time.

Dear Ian and family
I have just learned from Ron Baker abut the sad passing of your father.
Doug was surely one f those people who had an incredible impact on everyone  he met.
He was such a positive and dynamic and caring man and as many have said just being in his company "made" that person's day
Doug came to my grade one class at Burnham School on a regular basis but not nearly often enough.He spent about an hour playing the piano and teaching new songs.We loved every minute of those visits sing and laughing the entire time.
Several years later Doug (and Ross Metcalfe) bravely managed to get me through an Education Week version of Joseph and the Technicolour Dream Coat with a grade six class.I'm pretty sure they were surprised we all got through the experience.But it was an amazing journey and Iam forever grateful for all Doug did to make it a success.
Years later whenever I encountered Doug there was laughter and smiles and his usual stories and never ending kindness.
I will always remember Doug  with happiness and gratitude.
I send my thoughts and  prayers to all of you at this time but hope you are soon able to appreciate  how much he loved you all and how proud he was of every one of you.You are so very fortunate that  he was your amazing Dad!!!!!!
Listen....do I hear someone playing the piano with gusto? I think I do...and I hear the kids all singing along!


Lynne Kerr

To the Family of Doug Dewell.  My Family have known Doug for years and He was a True inspiration to be around.  His Musical Talents were beyond words.  Always displaying a positive outlook on Life.  Be PROUD of your Dad !! He touched many Lives. 

Alvin and Ruth Yeo
Scott, Tara, Conor and Kayla Yeo.

A hand extended in friendship, sharing and caring, Doug brought a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. I, 
together with many others, am forever grateful,

What a beautiful service for Doug. Ian, you spoke so well & it was how I remember Doug. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. May you all appreciate his legacy.

May your many loving memories of Doug  give you comfort now and in the days to come.   Doug will remain part of us through the beautiful memories he left behind.   I have many fond memories, especially earlier days when the young music teacher arrived at Enniskillen Public School to share his gift of music.
Thinking of you!
Ralph Werry

My heart goes out to Ian, Kathleen, Liz and Patrick for the loss of your beloved dad.  For those of us who knew and loved Doug, we have lost a beacon of light.  
Doug had a zest for life that drew us all in.  One of his many gifts was that he made people feel happy, no matter what the circumstance.  
My years of working side by side with Doug have left me with some of the best memories of my career.  
As a friend, I loved him dearly.  I will miss him forever.
Elaine

Ian, Kathleen, Liz and Patrick. So sorry about your wonderful dad. I have lots of memories of your time growing up next door in Orono. We all remember your dad with his scissors.  
St. Saviour’s also wants to send you condolences. 
Remember some great stories and they will make you thankful and grateful. Gayle Esler

To Doug's family:
We are deeply saddened to learn of Doug's sudden passing and our sympathy is with your family as you seek comfort from each other and your friends.  Doug was so full of life - a shining light in this world with his positive attitude, encouraging manner, and spontaneous sense of humor. The way in which he could make you feel welcome and cheerful was unparallelled. It was simply an uplifting joy to have known Doug over our years at St. Paul's United Church. His talent on the piano and in leading the choir was always inspirational. The memories he created we will treasure forever. We know that Doug's presence will be truly missed, both in your family and in the St. Paul's church community, and we are so thankful to have known him. May God bring you comfort in the days ahead.

Allyn and Rosemary

This was not easy news to accept.  Every piano,  every Christmas carol.  Always had, and forever will; bring memories of his pure JOY, a gentle reminder of his powerful effect in this life. How special he made us all feel,.
I am sending much love in my prayers for you all.❤ cousin Tiana Knox

Thanks for the memories, Doug!
Fondly,
Ron and Margarete

Doug will be missed by all whose lives he touched. He was funny, talented and all round wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with Doug's family, friends and St Paul's family
Judi White 
(BOAA choir member)

From the entire Vibert family, we are so sorry to learn of this sudden and terrible loss. Doug's work as an educator and musician was well known, as was his great sense of humour and kindness. We are wishing the entire family as much comfort as possible during this really difficult time.

Jenn, Florian, Barb, Wayne, Devin and Sophie

Like many, I have lost a dear friend. 
Doug set the room alight with his love, laughter, energy and caring. He had many gifts that that he shared abundantly.  The children he taught, the choirs he lead, the musicals he accompanied all blossomed with his tremendous musical talents. 
Doug loved all the arts including fashion. Didn’t we all appreciate his style.  He could dress for any occasion, for the Havelock Country Jamboree to events that required one of his tuxedos. Maybe the dress shoes, although very stylish, were not the best choice for Quebec City’s ice and snow.
He could tell a joke with perfect timing. To spend time with Doug was to laugh until your face hurt and then to laugh some more. He loved life, people and a good time.
I have been so fortunate to have Doug as a friend. We will miss him and smile when we remember his kindness,  jokes and when I reuse one of the huge bows he made for every gift.
I am very sorry that I am unable to attend the celebration for Doug. I send my love to his family and many friends.
Thank you Doug. You made life grand!

So sorry for your loss. I had Doug as a music teacher when I was in Hampton Jr. Loved singing Down by the Bay.

Condolences to the Dewell family. I was saddened to hear of Doug's passing. Any room he entered was always lit up. So many students benefited when he taught new song to their class or gave direction to so many school choirs. His excellence as a musician will be missed.

To Doug’s beautiful  family- 
Jim and I are sending you tons of sympathy, love and hugs at this very sad time. Doug was a treasured friend and fellow teacher. I have had the pleasure of working with him both as music resource and a classroom teacher. I learned so much from him both as a kind, happy and caring soul and from his awesome musical genius. 
Doug will always hold a special place with our family and will treasure all the great memories made over the past 45 years!♥️

I am an old Friend of Douglas' from cobourg. And he made sure everyone got together, the people reacted to his music when he held up his hands. My sympathy to the family.
Barbara

I was sad to hear of Doug's passing. I always enjoyed Doug at the family picnics and how great he was to my grandmother Ruth Tink. He was full of life, loved to laugh and was always a friendly face in a crowd. I wish the family some peace in knowing he lived a good life.
Kathy Manners (Harrell)

My condolences to Doug's family on his recent passing.  I remember enjoying when Mr. Dewell came to Central Public School in Bowmanville in the 1970s and 1980s to share his love of music with our class.

It was always a pleasure to cross paths with Doug and share a laugh and a chat.

It gave me great comfort when he was the Organist at my mother's and father-in-law's funerals.

He will be missed.

Doug, the memories of your humor, your smile, your kindness and  your zest for life will always remain in my heart.  You could light up a room with your smile, and every time I seen you it made me smile. 
I see all the beautiful traits in your children.
You definitely be sadly missed, but heaven has gained an exceptional , beautiful angel. 

Love Terry Thompson

A truly great man has passed. I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember Doug from Northumberland Newcastle Board Office days, later at St Paul's and sometimes from the store  on Hwy. 28.
He has left such a musical legacy, and touched so many, many lives! A life of kindness, compassion, and graciousness, well lived! 
My condolences to his family and friends.
Jennifer Thomlison

Doug was a wonderful man: energetic , caring , and , of course, always stylish. He gave his time after work to coach our singers and lead the pit band for our CSS musicals for several years until our schools music department was able to take over. That’s just one example of his generosity and community spirit.

So incredibly sorry to hear of Doug’s passing , I spoke to him not too long ago .
He taught music in all different schools including in Enniskillen where our kids went to school .
Our condolences to his family .

We are very sorry to hear of Doug's passing.  Doug was my mom's (Marion Dadson) cousin.   We had the honour of having Doug speak at her funeral a few years ago.  They had a special bond and got into lots of mischief together over the years.  They also shared a love for fashion.  Doug always had a zest for life and we all loved the great stories he told about the past at the family Christmas get togethers at the halls that they rented.  His vibrant spirit and creative talent will truly be missed.  Our sincere condoleces,  
       Jody Schilling & family

Will the service from St. Paul's be livestreamed?
Esther Rosevear Devolin
Guelph

I was so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing . 
He was a great man . I knew him as a member of Hampton church , as a teacher at Hobbs school , and as a family friend . 
Many happy memories .  Always with the jokes ready and a  big smile . 

My thoughts are with the whole family . 

Sibling loss is hard Carolyn . I feel your pain . I’m glad you’re surrounded by family . 

With love 
Bonnie Chant Kinsman

Our deepest condolences to all friends and family
We pray for Doug with humble hearts and much appreciation for many precious moments we have shared over the years. We salute you from afar as you move on to meet you Creator. Farewell Doug.

Doug at Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2024.  After another wonderful church service filled with wonderful music, Doug  can now  take a breath and relax. His calm, gentle and cheerful demeanor makes you want to smile and be happy. Thanks, Doug.

Doug at the November 10, 2024, REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE at St. Paul's United Church. Not only was Doug an exceptional organist, he brought energy and enthusiasm to church readings, from the pulpit.

January 21, 2024. Doug is accompanying the choir with another meaningful hymn. The congregation of St. Paul's United and St. Andrew's Presbyterian Ecumenical Shared Ministry, Bowmanville, is so thankful for the Ministry of Music Doug Dewell has brought to every church service.

Doug was glitter! He lit up a room. Doug embraced life, he embraced differences and he embraced the arts. His many talents, intellect, compassion and sense of humour united us. We have been friends from the first day we met some 45 years ago. I will miss him. 
Sending positive thoughts to his family , a family he was so proud of!

Our condolences to all of Doug's family. His passion for music and zest for life were immeasurable and so refreshing. He will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. 

Sincerely, 

Jack & Gloria Brown & Family

To the Dewell Family, I offer my condolences at this difficult time.  I have fond memories of Doug as he invited teenagers to join the Orono United Church Choir, myself and other teenaged friends.  This is where my love of singing in church choirs began.  

He would often say to the Tenors and Basses "get out your hat pins and help the Sopranos hit the high notes".  He had a great sense of humour.  He was a master playing the organ and piano.

After choir practice in Orono, Doug would often stop by my parents home for a cup of tea (and to share gossip).  My Mom loved it when Doug would visit.

May you find peace knowing that Doug touched the lives of many.  May your memories of your Dad never fade.

Our hearts are with you at this time of deep sorrow.
Lovely memories and the world has lost a very kind soul!
Bragg Family

Doug is one of the nicest people I have ever met. Always a gentleman, always smiling, and his mood was infectious.. He was a wonderful musician, and educator. I had the privilege of working with Doug in several musicals in Cobourg. I am sure that he will be missed by so many friends and family, and I send my love and condolences.  Heaven has acquired a great talent, and he suspect that he is entertaining them now. Rest well Doug.

My heartfelt condolences to the Dewell Family.  I was saddened to hear of Doug’s sudden passing. I have many fond memories of Wednesdays night at the Oasis and pretty much weekly dinner parties and gatherings with “the gang”.  We had so much fun especially with Doug and his antics, stories, and jokes.  Doug’s celebration of his life coincides with the opening of Northumberland players musical for which Doug was involved in for many, many years.
So many great memories of those times with Doug .  Unfortunately many of the Players people who knew and loved  Doug won’t be able to attend but will be there in spirit.  Rest in Peace  Douglas.  You are truly One of a Kind .  Heaven just became a livlier place❤️

I am saddened to hear this. I met Mr Dewell many years ago as a student. In the last 5 years we met again at my post office. It was a pleasure to get reacquainted with him and now call him  Doug .  The world has lost a wonderful man. Im sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.

My condolences to Doug's family.  I was a student in his music classes at Orono Public School and I still remember those classes for their joyfulness and his love of music.  What wonderful memories.

Here is a photo of Doug and me as we shared a birthday. Miss you. Love Christine

To Liz Kathleen and the rest of your families. Please know how saddened  I was to learn of your Dad's sudden passing. I'm sure it's left a big hole in your hearts  as it has in the hearts of your Dad's many friends. There are no words during times like this but know that I am sending my condolences to all of you. May you find comfort and peace in the days ahead. Sleep sweet Doug in perfect peace you will be missed by all of those who loved or knew you. Sincerely Candy

I’m so sorry to hear that Mr Dewell has passed.  I can still hear the beautiful music when he was sitting in front a piano.. I want to extend my sincere condolences and friendship to the whole family. Doug will be missed.

When Doug was the music consultant he brought so much joy, energy and expertise to every school performance.   I particularly remember school plays at S.T. Worden in the 80’s.  There was one time when he conducted the junior choir with such a sweet version of “Streets of London” that we were left  teary eyed.  He  had such an encouraging manner.    Doug helped me out  when I worked out of the Board Office  for a few years.  He was very kind, and made a point of introducing me to people and explaining how things worked.   Whenever I ran into Doug throughout the years he was consistently welcoming and so darn witty.  He will always be remembered so fondly.

So very sorry to hear about Doug's passing.  He was a very nice man, we talked many times.  He kept his property so we'll manicured, I told him he'll put me to shame.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Ian and family, I am so sorry for your loss.  Your dad lives in my memory as a joyful man who spread love and light.  It was always a highlight to have Mr. Dewell join Mrs. Walchuk at Enniskillen Public School to bring that extra sparkle to our (already wonderful) music program.  Although I didn't ever have him as a teacher, it was a delight to watch and listen to him play at various events, and see his love and enthusiasm for music.  Forty years on (?!), those memories are still clear.  My thoughts are with you.

Our sincere condolences to Doug"s family. I have known Doug since we were 12. We went to high school together & rode the bus together. Oh the memories!!
I have followed Doug's career through the years & knew he was as musical as ever. I was proud to know him.
Love the pictures posted by his daughter.
We have a beautiful plate that Doug gave us for a wedding present. We have always cherished it.
Esther (Rosevear) & Keith Devolin
Guelph

Many of us have lost a dear friend.   I first met Doug as a parent at Orono Public School.
Later I got to know Doug much better while we both were at the Board Office in Cobourg.

One of my favorite memories was the workshop we did for Math and More!  He made this workshop so much fun for everyone !

After we retired we kept in touch...having many get togethers and lunches with other friends.   Doug would always keep us entertained with his witty statements and jokes.

Doug loved his children, their spouses and his grandchildren very much.   He loved telling us what they were doing.  

I can't attend his celebration of life but please know that I will be thinking of him and all of you.

Dear Doug. You were everyone’s sunshine. You entered a school or any building and the building and people instantly glowed with laughter and positivity.  My family is  so lucky to have you and your children as friends.

My sincerest condolences to the Dewell family 😢
You were taken from us too quickly without any warning.  

I have so many fond memories of Doug 🎶.  I was a newbie teacher at was then known as the “Northumberland Newcastle B of E”, which then became the “Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB”.  I was in my young 20’s .  I fondly remember working on gds 7, 8, & 9 music curriculum with Doug (& my dear friend, Elaine Walchuk).  I also taught his son Ian instrumental music (flute) at The Pines.  He is now a wonder teacher himself — you must be so proud.  

I first learned of your passing as I watched the St Paul’s/St Andrew’s church service online last Sunday (I just recently joined the church during the summer & absolutely love it!!).  I was shocked & so saddened to hear the news.  Your wonderful choir will also miss you greatly 🎶.  

God bless you & your entire family.  Heaven has gained a musical angel.  I will grieve you & your wonderful, full life that you were blessed with.  I will grieve for your extended family at this difficult time.  But I believe that God called you back to heaven for a reason….a reason that we will never know.  But I also believe that we will meet again 🙏🏻🎶💕🎶🙏🏻.

Sincere condolences to your family & your church family/choir.  You certainly made a lasting impression on my early years as a music teacher. 

Linda MacArthur 🎶🙏🏻🎵🙏🏻🎶🙏🏻

My deepest condolences to the wonderful Dewell family.  Mr. Dewell was always so lovely. 
 He was the epitome of style and class to me growing up.  Fond memories of him gently rolling his eyes and usually making a joke when we ran in and out playing like wild animals.   May you all find guidance and peace through these times.  Love from the Smiths <3

So sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Doug 's joy whenever he was around children and music. He was a fine man. I also remember Ian's kindness to us when we lost our son Michael. He was Adam 's grade six teacher and also treated our other grandchild , Megan, with great kindness as well.  Our prayers are with you, Jack Taylor

We met Doug for the first time in 2012 and he welcomed us into the life of St. Paul's United Church. Then in 2013 I had the privilege of working with Doug as I served as St. Paul's temporary minister while the community sought their next spiritual leader. What fun we had working together, experimenting and inviting the Creator to be creative through us. Visiting at Doug's home for a special dinner was an honour and a great adventure too. I am sure anyone who has worked with Doug will say that to work with him was to love him and be loved.

Joanne and I will never forget this great gift of God called Doug.

Love and Peace to all Doug's family as he dances with the angels. 
Rev. Dan

To Carolyn and family.  My sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.  His gift of his music will live on in our memory.

One of the brighter lights in our universe has been extinguished.I have a clear memory of Doug on the Oasis patio many years ago.He was surrounded by friends and admirers,as always.Wonderfully dressed and debonair, again as always.My condolences to his family.Doug was a one of.

One of  many fellowship moments at St. Paul’s.

Missing this wonderful man, his big smile and even bigger heart.  Doug you made us all feel so special, included and loved, your leadership was a privilege and a pleasure.  

Doreen and Roy Youngman.

Condolences to all of Doug’s family and friends.  Doug was larger than life when he entered a space.  His laughter and hugs lifted everyone’s spirits.  He gave much energy to every class that he visited.  Rest in peace!

I have lovely memories finding my voice with Mr. Dewell. His love of music seeped from him and inspired others to find joy in song. Thank you Mr. Dewell for sharing your gifts with so many students over the years. A life well lived.

Sending love and condolences to Doug’s family at this time. I was a young girl in the 1970s who just wanted to play piano and Doug was my first (and best) piano teacher.  Doug was a fantastic teacher and his enthusiasm for music contagious. Who would have thought learning scales, chords, sight reading & ear training could be so much fun. I was so fortunate to have such a great mentor as he taught me classical music and inspired me to learn contemporary styles as well.  I also remember when Doug took on a new role of “Dad”. May the love of your memories with your father continue to shine bright on all of you in the days ahead. Your dad was an incredible person and I am so lucky to have had him be a part of my life thru music.

I cannot help but smile when I think of Mr Dewell, his bright happy face, his voice and his energy when he would visit our school (Kirby PS).  He would play piano and sing with us on occasion and it was always a highlight of any day when he dropped in. Such a strong voice, energy and talent that made his performance seem so natural and almost effortless for him. Definitely some defining moments in this my  life, and some 40 +years later I can still see and  hear him and feel the same way I did back then when I think of those visits. So before I transition from being misty to sobbing, I think I will just say thank you. For sharing your time, your gift and your energy. It’s been many years since I’ve seen the Mr Dewell that I remember but his memory is etched somewhere deep in my mind that I hope will never be erased because it’s a memory that brings me a truly warm and happy feeling. ❤️

Mike Clay

Accompanied by the most wonderful musician at St. Paul’s United Church.  My headpiece is a bow from one of Doug’s beautifully wrapped presents.  I will miss you, my Dear Dear Friend!

So sad to learn of Doug's passing🥹.  Our most sincere condolences to his family.  My memories of Doug go back to from him growing in Hampton with his wonderful, welcoming family, to teaching Music in elementary schools with Ross Metcalf, to being the amazing organist at St. Paul's United Church and much more.  He was indeed a legend - someone I expected to live forever -  and he will in our hearts and minds.  Rest in peace, Doug  after a life so richly well-lived 💔.

Remembering all your warmth,  vitality and wonderful sense of humour.  You will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. 
Cousins Phil and Josie

Another shining star has left us. May his brilliance shine down on us for eternity. Our heartfelt condolences to the family and community. Taullie and Janie Thompson.

I loved the many conversations I had with Doug as we talked life and church. I loved one Sunday I was visiting for church and during Communion Doug was playing Gethesmane from the Jesus Christ Superstar Soundtrack. After church I approached him and said thanks for the taste of Jesus Christ Superstar during Communion. He laughed and said "I did not know if anyone was paying attention!!" I said you are talking to a huge JCS fan here. Thanks Doug ffor how your music moved me higher and higher.

OBITUARY

Douglas Edward Dewell

15 January, 1947 – 7 February, 2025

Courtice Funeral Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services