How well we remember all the annual Kettleby Fairs, hosted by Doug and Marg, much enjoyed by all family members and visitors ... plus all our visits to their store and the Post Office when Marg served as 'Post Master'. Always ready and willing to have a chat and engage with their neighbours! They were, and will always remain in our memories, as Kettleby's community-minded, very fine 'First Family'. Doug did tell us how much he missed Marg, so it would be nice to imagine them now, carrying on with their sociable traditions, including the Kettleby Fair, with Marg wearing her long dress and bonnet, and Doug in "top hat and tails".

I first met Doug around 1950. We soon became close friends and it became apparent  what a sensible and independent thinker he was. He didn't necessarily follow the crowd. An example was in automobiles . In those days most of us drove old coupes and convertibles. Doug instead, had a rare 1932 Chevy pickup,  but with his enjoyment of fishing and the outdoors, it much more suited his  lifestyle.  One of the many things Doug introduced me to was ice fishing at Lake Simcoe.  I was impressed at how well equipped and organized he  was, having his own fishing hut  and all the other necessary gear. When summer arrived, Doug suggested some of us might want to spend a weekend at Port Bolster. There were cabins that could be rented just down the highway from his family's  cottage and a dance hall nearby. That's all it took to lure a bunch of single young guys to spend many fun filled weekends there.
Doug met Margaret, married and settled down to start a family earlier than the rest of us but we always kept in touch.     Over the years, the ritual of getting away every fall for a stag weekend evolved at whatever location was available. When Doug bought his place on Lake St. Peter,   he kindly offered to host these annual events. There are many happy memories from these including what came to be known as "Doug's Rant". We would get Doug into discussing  some current political event that he felt  strongly about and after a few scotches, his full frustrations would come to the surface and he'd take over the floor. The rants were sadly missing in the final 3 or 4 years. This seemed to somehow coincide with Doug switching over from scotch to wine as his refreshment of choice or perhaps he was just mellowing a bit with age.
It's been a great ride through life knowing Doug.                                  We will miss him very much.                                                                                                                                                       

Our heartfelt condolences to the Brookes family on the sad passing of Doug.  We have many fond memories spanning several decades of Doug (and Marg) ie:  the Kettleby Store, the Kettleby Fair, garage sales, community happenings, conversations, debates, a few laughs and the list goes on.  Doug was "Kettleby" a kind and kindred soul who participated and gave much to the community.   He will indeed be missed.   Memories are forever and there are just so many.  When one saw Doug, one would see Marg; they were always together.  Now they can be together once again.  Bob & Heather  

Our family knew Doug and Margaret well as we lived on a farm in King for 30 years. We often went to the Kettleby  General Store for milk and eggs or to mail a letter. Our children loved to look through Doug's collection of old movies and bring one or two home.
Doug was the chairman of the Kettleby Fair Association for many years. My husband, Andy, and I led the parade one year all dressed up in costume. Doug and Marg were always in costume too.
They were wonderful kind, loving people who gave so much of their time to the community.
Our deepest sympathy to Andy, Nancy and Jill on the death of their father.    You are in our thoughts and prayers. Andy and Dorothy Zajac

I have many good memories of Kettleby, particularly the store and knew Doug and Marg well. My friends and I while growing up used to frequent the village and spent a lot of time going to and from the store. Doug and Marg were always friendly - very good people. 
My deepest condolences Andy, Nancy, Lilian and families

Dear Andy, Nancy and Jil, my deepest condolences to you and all of your families.  Growing up in the Holland Marsh, I would be bussed to Kettleby PS and pass by Kettleby General Store every morning. When I got my licence I would stop in with my friends to get ice cream during the warm weather and my parents would go there to pick up parcels.  I am truly saddened to learn of your Dad's passing and I do know, after losing my Dad this June that the beautiful memories will buoy you up in the more difficult times.  Sending you peace and strength.

My sincerest condolences to you Andy, Nancy and Jil. I have very fond memories of both your Mom and Dad, from the years I resided  in Kettleby and went to school with Jil, and afterwards as a visitor while seeing family or attending Richildaca. They were both integral parts of the community, who had a huge impact in all who had the pleasure to know them.

Doug was a warm and wonderful man whom we enjoyed many long chats with at the store and eventually outside of his house while out for walks. He was bright and cheery and full of life, right to the very end! He was a fighter and overcame various injuries and health issues, especially during this pandemic. He was a significant and cherished member of our village and will be sorely missed. Say "Hi" to Margaret for us Doug and rest in peace!

Our condolences on the passing of Doug. Lots of wonderful memories of both Marg & Doug at the Kettleby post office and store. They will both be long remembered. 

Condolences to the family on John’s passing. I remember visiting the Kettleby General Store regularly for postal services whilst conducting our family business at Alba Pallet on Lloydtown Aurora Road. It was always a pleasure to see his smiling face greeting me with friendly conversation. Thank you for the happy times and memories. 
Shawna O’Neill

How sad to hear of your Dad’s passing. He will be remembered as is your Mom for their kindness and generosity to the community.  We had the pleasure of getting to know your Dad through our son, Robert who spent a few years as an employee at the General store.
We always had wonderful conversations and had the delight of his visiting our home in Dwight.
With love support and fond memories of a true gentleman!

Dear Andy , Nancy, Jil and family, Please accept my sincere sympathies in the loss of your loved one, you are all in my thoughts and prayers, love and hugs to all! Cathy Davis 

OBITUARIO

John Douglas Brookes

23 enero, 1933 – 2 octubre, 2021

Thompson Funeral Home

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