Douglas Howald

Howald, Douglas Claire Lived a long and happy life surrounded by the two things most important to him: friends and family. Doug passed away on Friday October 21st at Freeport Hospital. Doug entered the world on November 18, 1924, earning the distinction of becoming the 6th baby born at the newly opened St. Mary’s Hospital in Kitchener. As the child of what was to become a family of 13, he learned early how to be resourceful and independent. At a young age, he boarded at a local farm, earning wages for the family by working on the farm before and after school and on weekends. He developed a real appreciation for rural life and what it meant to work for a living. Working hard throughout the years, he learned carpentry and various handyman skills, adding to his growing list of abilities. In the 1940’s, he joined the Canadian Forces to volunteer his skills for the war effort. Many adventures occurred during these times, and were enthusiastically recounted throughout the years. He met and married the love of his life, Doris Elaine Schilling, and settled in Kitchener to raise a family. Their only child, Wayne, arrived in 1951, soon to move into the house that Doug built for his family in Petersburg, having acquired land through the Veteran’s Land Act. Family vacations throughout the years at Sauble Beach gave them many good memories of family and friends together. After working for several years for Brandon Construction, Doug began a new career with the then new Waterloo Catholic School Board as Building and Maintenance Superintendent. He retired in 1988, having enjoyed the challenge of the position and making many lifelong friendships. He loved to spend time with family, celebrating ordinary and special occasions with his son Wayne, daughter-in-law Jane and grandchildren Jeff and Jennifer. He was proud of his family and their accomplishments, sharing news about them with his friends and extended family. Doug and Doris spent time travelling to exotic and warm locations, enjoying the excitement of planning each trip. Sadly, Doris died in 1998, and Doug needed to plan a different life without her. He decided to buy a trailer in Port Elgin and spent decades living there from May until October. He could hardly wait throughout the winter to get back to his trailer, outdoor viewing of the Blue Jays games and the warm and friendly company of the other campers, who were to become very close friends. Illness took hold of Doug in late August, but he was happily able to finish most of the summer at his trailer, before returning home for medical care. He is survived by his son Wayne, daughter-in-law Jane, grandson Jeff Howald (Anita), granddaughter Jennifer McDonald (Ian), and great-grandchildren Louisa, Evelyn and Luke. If you knew Doug, you know that he didn’t like anyone to fuss over him. To honour his wishes, there will be no funeral. Cremation has taken place. Family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, November 5th from 2-4 p.m. at Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. As expressions of sympathy, donations to Community Support Connections/Meals on Wheels or the charity of your choice would be appreciated (cards may be arranged by calling the funeral home). Visit www.henrywalser.com for the Douglas Howald memorial. Cheers Dad. Say “Hi” to Mom when you see her.