Douglas Bruce Nelson passed away at his home in Edmonton, held close by his family as the sun set on the 21st of April, 2024. He was born in Cold Lake, Alberta and spent his childhood in Edmonton in a house built by his father. Doug would go on to design and build a house with his wife, Beth, when they needed a new home for their growing family.
The eldest of five, Doug was a dynamic being. After attending Bonnie Doon High School, he graduated from the University of Alberta in 1980 with a BSc in Geology. Doug met Beth during a field trip to the Rocky Mountains, where they bonded over the joys of geological mapping. They sparked the same interest in their children during many summer camping trips, using their shared knowledge to answer innumerable questions about the pebbles and mountains they encountered.
He was very aware of our place in the natural world, and his love of scaling outcrops and going prospecting reflected his curiosity. Doug continued to explore new perspectives, and was excited by the potential of a sustainable future. He acted upon this interest with forward-looking pursuits, which included co-founding a geothermal energy company, learning about green building, and participating in ecosystem conservation as a citizen scientist in the Southern Gulf Islands.
After being actively involved in the Edmonton branch, he was the President of the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta from 1994 to 1996. Having a brother with schizophrenia, he fought hard to change the stigma associated with the illness and remained open-minded towards different ways of being.
He is remembered through his mother, Elizabeth Janet Nelson (née Lamont), and his sisters, Patricia (Keith), Janet (David), Laurie (Floyd), and lifelong friends. Doug was predeceased by his father, Robert Bruce, and his dear brother, Donald Ross.
Doug shared his heart with the love of his life, Beth Burwash Nelson, and his three kids, Murray, Lindsay (Shreyas), and Lauren. We will hold his love and encouragement with us forever.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Pender Islands Conservancy Association, Schizophrenia Society of Alberta, or Canadian Cancer Society.
A celebration of life for friends and family will take place on May 31st in Edmonton, AB.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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