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Walter Douglas Holmes "Doug", 76, passed away peacefully at St. Joseph's Hospice in Sarnia, Ontario on Saturday, July 6, 2024. Doug's last days were spent surrounded by the love of his family - listening to some of his favourite music and recounting happy memories.
Doug was born in Chatham, Ontario on March 15, 1948 to Walter and Anne Holmes. He is the beloved husband of 58 years to Barbara Ann (Peterkin) Holmes. They resided together primarily in Wallaceburg where they raised their four children, eventually moving to Sarnia later in life.
While his children were still young, Doug worked as a mailman in Wallaceburg. In the summertime his kids would ride their bikes to find him so that they could spend more time with their adored father on his routes. After this, Doug worked a majority of his life in the automotive industry. The work Doug was most proud of was when he served as a pastor and missionary. He often recounted his adventures on the mission field in Guyana, South America. It was through missionary work in the eighties that Doug was first able to visit Barbados. This island quickly became his favourite place on earth. Doug has requested his family spread his ashes there at Cherry Tree Hill. The family plans to honour this request through a private ceremony at a later date.
Doug loved spending time with his family, especially his wife, Barb. Most days you could find them together under the Blue Water Bridge watching the ships pass by, often munching on french fries. Doug also loved Cadillacs, listening to Elvis Presley or Jimmy Swaggart and collecting teddy bears.
Doug is survived by his wife, Barb, and their four children: Chris (Maureen), Lisa (Mark) Titus, Jeff (Vicki), and Greg (Melissa). He is also survived by eleven grandchildren: Kayla (Tim), JT (Sam), Ryan, Jessalyn, Jack, Ali, Jayden, Abbey, Luke, Elijah, and Ava. His brother-in-law, Jim (Susan) Peterkin and his nieces and nephews: Toni, Teri, Jay (Ben), Anthony, and Brandon. He was anticipating the arrival of his first great granddaughter. Doug is predeceased by his parents Walter and Anne (Cellotto) Holmes, his in-laws Wesley and Margaret (DeBurger) Peterkin and his brother-in-law, Brian Peterkin. Doug will be incredibly missed by his family and friends.
At Doug's wishes, cremation has already taken place; the family will be holding a private Celebration of Life.
Donations to St. Joseph's Hospice in Doug's memory are greatly appreciated.
The family wishes to thank the staff and volunteers of St. Joseph's Hospice for all their loving care and kindness. A special thank you to Dr. MacSweeney, Ashley, Christine and Rachel.
2 Corinthians 5:17