Dr. Douglas Joseph McKelvie

MCKELVIE Dr. Douglas Joseph DVM-VS - 90. It is with broken hearts that we, the family, announce his unexpected, but peaceful, passing on Saturday, January 14, 2012, at the QE II in Halifax. Eldest son of the late Dr. Silas and Martha McKelvie, Doug was born in Shelburne, Ontario. Doug enlisted in the Air Force during World War II and served as a navigator with the 434 Squadron. After returning home, he finished his university degree and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph in 1947. Doug practised both large and small animal veterinary medicine in Ontario for 40 years, a profession perhaps best described by humourist Will Rogers as “The best doctor in the world is the veterinarian. He can't ask his patients what is the matter - he's got to just know”. Affectionately known as “Doc” by many of his clients, his Stetson hat and pipe were his signature calling card. In 2010 Doug received his 65 yr pin from Lorne Masonic Lodge in Shelburne, Ontario. A community minded individual, he was Charter President of the Hensall Kinsmen Club and President of the Essex Rotary Club, where he became a Paul Harris Member. It was at the Rotary Club where he was introduced to the charity Sleeping Children Around the World. After moving to Halifax, he became a member of the Western Air Crew Association and the Halifax Probis Club.

Doug’s many interests included golfing in the Cape Breton Highlands, curling, bridge, Dixieland jazz music, baking bread and especially playing the piano and organ. Although in demand at church events, sing songs and kitchen parties, it was his one night stand on Bourbon Street that was the highlight of his piano playing career. A single malt scotch was always a welcome treat. Survived by Doris (Wakefield) his beloved wife of of 65 years this August. Doug will be sadly missed but leaves behind a lifetime of memories and “Pearls of Wisdom” for his son Robert (Margaret Guy), daughter Anne (John Jordan), grandchildren Sean and Emma McKelvie, Sarah (David MacDonald), great grandson Everett Douglas MacDonald, several nieces and nephews, brother Bob (Barb), sister-in-law Helen. He was predeceased by his brothers Jack (Betty) and Allan. His many friends from far and wide will miss his sincere friendship and the “twinkle in his eye”. Special thanks to all the Doctors and Nursing staff at the QE II Health Sciences Centre. A service will be held on Saturday, January 21 at the St. Peter’s Anglican Church, 3 Dakin Drive, Halifax at 11:00 am. A reception will be held immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Sleeping Children Around The World, the St. Peter Anglican Church or a charity of your choice.