With sadness we announce the passing of Dr. Bruce Douglas on Gabriola Island, B.C., Saturday January 25, 2020.
Partner and best friend of the late Sandy Corby and father of Mark Douglas (Meredith), of Delta, B.C. Son of the late Cecil and Evelyn Douglas. Brother of Donna Hyde (Raymond) and Joan Curran (Jody), of Sault Ste. Marie. Uncle of Doug Hyde of Ottawa, Bruce Curran of Winnipeg, Andrea Curran of King City, and Karen Evans and James Curran, both of the Sault.
Bruce graduated in 1961 in engineering physics from the University of Toronto. He also attended the University of Western Ontario medical school, graduating in 1967 with his doctorate in medicine. Then he moved west and began his medical career in Vancouver, B.C.
Bruce was a medical pioneer. He was one of the first to pass the competency exams for application and research in the emerging field of radiation oncology. He worked in the Medical Biophysics Unit at the B.C. Cancer Research Centre in Vancouver. He also did cancer research work for TRIUMF, a partnership among Canadian research universities. He dedicated the latter part of his medical career to the field of infectious disease. His work was recognized in 2018 when he was bestowed a prestigious award for having a significant impact on HIV treatment in Vancouver.
A versatile and energetic person all his life, Bruce pursued many interests and hobbies. He enjoyed collecting and finishing antique furniture and had a special interest in Medalta, a western pottery, collecting many pieces and writing a definitive work on it. As a hobby he bred and raised Devon Rex cats.
Bruce died peacefully Saturday, January 25, 2020 at home with his son Mark at his side. Cremation has been held and his ashes spread on Gabriola Island according to his wishes. A family service honoring Bruce will be held this summer at Horseshoe Bay on Lake Superior. Memorial contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be appreciated – Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E 705-759-2522).