Douglas James August von Dersch

Doug left this world knowing how loved he was. His family and multitude of friends from the different chapters of his life made him feel very special. These are superstars in their own lives, who loved and respected Doug immensely. He was a larger-than-life presence who had a big laugh, a bigger heart, and who frequently had “leaky eyes” over sad movies and most recently, the incredible outpouring of affection shown to him during his struggle with the devil, cancer.

As did anyone born in the late 40’s, he lived and adapted to an unending revamping of technology, terminology and shifting attitudes, probably from the constant corrections and updates from his eclectic kids, and the gentle and not so gentle “coaching” from Angela, his partner in love and life for the last 25 years. “Angel” as he called her, taught him what the term soulmate really meant. Friends always commented on how palpable their love was when he’d watch her sing. A relationship many aspire to have.

His career spanned from professional athlete, playing six years in the CFL, to a stint in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve, to a professional ski instructor in the lovely Quebec Laurentians, to a businessmen, primarily in the financial field where being the son of “Shorty” and Jean Dersch from Innisfail, AB gave him a genuine quality that his clients trusted and admired. His business cards included RCNR, Xerox, Wood Gundy, Royal Trust, Perigee Investment, and for the last 15 years, Wash Safe Canada, a company that he and Angela conceived, built and operated across Canada.

His kids remember him as a spirited, supporting and adoring Dad who loved to plan spontaneous adventures for them with sometimes unexpected results. Sailboat trips, surprise family vacations, learning a Christmas song on piano, and desserts for dinner were a few of the highlights. Doug taught us all to take the time to stop and smell the roses or admire the beauty of a sunrise every single day.

Doug leaves behind his wife, Angela Kelman, sons Kelly (Sarah) and Alex, and daughter Chloe (Jodie). He was proud that his children chose the perfect partners. He also leaves his brothers Derrek (Lynn) and Dexter (Terresa, the only sister he ever had).

Doug said “Being deeply loved by someone gives you huge strength but loving someone deeply gives you courage. Your love helped me be brave”

In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation to the North Shore Hospice in Doug’s name. https://lghfoundation.com/tribute-donation/ A celebration of his wonderful life will take place early in the new year.