It is with a heavy heart that I, JoAnne Godard, announce the passing of my dear husband Douglas Edward Rowland. Doug is the son of Morley and Kathleen Rowland and nephew of Mary Annie Ruthledge (deceased). Doug will also be lovingly remembered by his sister, Moreen Rutherford (Bruce); his nephew, Steven Rutherford (Jenny); his great nephews, Ethan and Harrison Rutherford; his niece, Erin Rutherford (Lucas); his previous spouse, Jane Dawson; his mother in law, Gayle Godard; as well as many true and loving friends.
Doug grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia and earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Victoria. He spent his early career at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans studying fish throughout the province. In his thirties, Doug returned to school and graduated from Vancouver Vocational Institute as a finishing carpenter. In 2000, he moved to Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where he was involved in EnerGuide for homes through S.H.E. Consulting. He moved to Ottawa in 2006, where he finished his career in the research branch of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. While in Ottawa, Doug joined the Running Room and completed a half marathon. Doug was an accomplished photographer and was dedicated to perfecting his art throughout his life. One of Doug’s proudest accomplishments was completing his Yoga Teacher Training. He taught at Elevate Studio for many years as well as other venues in Ottawa. An avid outdoorsman who adored nature, Doug could often be found peacefully paddling his canoe. Doug lived a full and varied life as a true gentleman who believed in living truthfully and authentically.
A memorial celebration will be held at Beechwood Chapel, 280 avenue Beechwood, Ottawa (ON), on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at 2:00 pm followed by a reception from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.
Please give to the Prostate Cancer Canada, United World Voices, and/or plant a tree in Doug’s memory by visiting: https://www.alivingtribute.ca/ .
Digital Guestbook
Brenda and Merv
Phyto Harris
I am very saddened by the news of Doug's passing. I worked with Doug at CMHC and we socialized often. He was a good friend to me.
Devinder Kaur
All of us at PranaShanti Yoga Centre are grateful for having the joy and delight to know Doug and share in his presence. He will always be remembered for his humour, caring heart and dedication to yoga. Akal. Akal. Akal.
Don Fugler
Doug and I worked together at CMHC for many years. I think he set the record for contract renewals as CMHC, at the time, was loath to engage more permanent employees. Doug played a large part in the research undertaken during that period, always with his gentle good humour and useful insights.
An Y
I was looking for his yoga classes today but found that he passed away. I am so sorry about this. He was such a great yoga teacher and person. He brought me peace, warmth, and happiness during my grad school years when I was taking his classes. He will be missed.
We are so sad to learn of Doug’s death this week at an early age. We remember him fondly, recalling lively times with Doug and Jane in Vancouver and Victoria. We send our condolences to all who will miss his kind and gentle presence.