Obituary for
Doug Simpson
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Douglas (Doug) Simpson on November 9, 2019 after a two-year battle with esophageal cancer. Born on May 12, 1940 in Debert, Nova Scotia to Gordon and Evelyn Simpson, Doug’s early life followed many paths. Ultimately, a life in sales firmly tied him to his roots in central Nova Scotia.
Doug’s easy-going manner made him a beloved and trusted friend to many. A natural storyteller, he endeared himself to all he met through his seemingly bottomless store of jokes, or from the recounting of rambling stories that frequently took numerous back roads before ever arriving at their conclusion. A passionate gardener, Doug spent a great deal of time alone with his thoughts as he cultivated his stunning backyard. Under Doug’s patient care and vision, what began as a simple plot of green when the home on Pleasant Street was purchased in the fall of 1982, evolved into a beautiful oasis that was always adorned with the fruits of his labor, from bright winter transplants to the glorious return of his perennials each spring. With its equally warm patron, the home itself was the natural gathering place for an array of family and friends. Hardly a day passed by without someone dropping in, and on Christmas Eve especially, the doors were always open to anyone searching for a little cheer. Beyond his family and his beloved garden, Doug especially loved sailing with Ian McPherson and the Hiflite crew, and golfing in Debert with his lifelong friends. Professionally, Doug was one half of Nova Ignition, a Truro automotive business that he owned and managed for three decades with his cousin and close friend, Grant Putnam. After his retirement Doug greatly enjoyed working to rejuvenate our local rivers with the Cobequid Salmon Association. Ultimately, Doug will be remembered by all for his ease and affability, his quick and infectious laugh, and the love of a good drink with friends both new and old.
Doug is survived by his partner, Betty Amon, his children and grandchildren Janelle Simpson Finnegan, her husband Martin and their daughters Jill, Bex and Ruby of Rothesay, NB; Jason Simpson and his wife Christine and Pascal, Ariana and Paloma of Invermere, BC; his first wife Caroline Simpson; Betty’s son Michael Cooke, his wife Cheryl and their daughters Taylor and Sophie of Debert, NS, and his siblings Barbara (Tom, deceased), Gerry (Linda), Bob (Gaye) and Brenda (Dave). He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Evelyn (McCully) Simpson of Debert, NS.
The family would like to offer heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Palliative Care Unit at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre and to the many family and friends who kept him company during his stay.
Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, November 12 at 2pm in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow St., Truro. Rev. Carolyn Wilson – Wynne, officiating. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doug’s name to the Cobequid Salmon Association or to a charity of your choice. Online Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.ColchesterCommunity.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Doug
Simpson 1940 2019..
Death notice for the town of: Truro, Province: Nova Scotia