Douglas Thoirs Queen was tragically taken from us in Toronto on Monday, March 17, 2014.
Doug, and his twin brother Andrew, were born in Richmond Hill, Ontario on September 3, 1965, the youngest of 9 children. The surprise of Louise and Lloyd Queen bringing home not one, but two babies was a joy to everyone.
From that time on, Doug filled all our lives with warmth, kindness, caring, and compassion. With a gentle smile, he had the ability to see the best in everyone.
Doug went to Richmond Hill High School, got his BA at the University of Toronto (Scarborough Campus) and then went on to York University for his Bachelor of Education. This enabled him to fulfill his passion for teaching children.
Doug spent many summer weeks at Geneva Park on Lake Couchiching, first as a family cottager and then a counselor. A long time “Geneva Parker”, he loved to share his passion for nature and music with all those he encountered there.
Doug was an exceptional teacher in the TDSB and taught at Brock Public School for the past 18 years where he was loved and greatly valued by staff and the students he so enjoyed teaching. He was the driving force in the acquisition of a large collection of instruments with which to share his passion for music with the students at Brock.
Music has always been an integral part of Doug’s life. He was a very accomplished pianist, song-writer and singer. He played many other instruments as well. His love of music of all forms was evident in their band Jughead, which included family members and friends. Their hit single “Hockey Song” can be heard at the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Doug found the love of his life, Trish, in 1994. They were married 12 years ago this coming June 21st, in a beautiful ceremony on Toronto Island. They were blessed with the birth of Dylan (9) and Jack (7) that made Doug’s life complete.
There was nothing of more value than his family and friends in Doug’s world and he will be dearly missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to memorial fund at St Christopher’s House for their Music School. St Christopher’s has been helping children who might not be able to afford music classes for years. It is in the neighbourhood of Doug’s school and would combine his love of music and children. You can designate your donation in memory of Douglas Queen, for the Music School Bursary. You can make your donation here.
Please feel free to share any kind thoughts or memories on this memorial page.
It’s coming up on ten years, Doug!
Lewis and I just spent the weekend with Tricia, Jack and Dylan. It was so nice to be together! Your boys are growing into such fine young men. Caring, fun, loving, thoughtful. They’re all managing to carry on in life without you and finding ways to thrive and move ahead. But it’s also obvious the big hole you’ve left in all our lives.
I miss you so much!!
It’s 10 years ago today that Doug died so tragically. I was just telling his story to a young colleague last night along with how at the local level we lobbied hard and succeeded at getting a relevant clause added to our collective agreement in Doug’s honor . I’m sending all of Doug’s family love and good vibes today. Some shoes are just too big to fill, even with a twin brother with the same shoe size! 🎶💜🎶
Doug taught my two daughters at brock and even though they weren’t obsessed with music they were always so excited to go to music class and listen to Mr.Queen sing the cat came back and play the accordion. It’s such a tragedy what happen and my family and I miss him very much. Rest in peace, for your memory shall never fade.
Dear Trish and Boys,
You will be in my thoughts every day. I lost my husband suddenly through accident when my 2 lads were about the same age as yours, many years ago.
Trish, you can be strong for them. Your family is amazing and they will carry you through. All will be OK. Doug’s love was pure and strong; it will sustain you. Take good care of yourselves.
Much love and wishes for inner peace,
Kim
Vancouver, BC
Doug: The speech not spoken
I am writing this because, to put it frankly, I was incapable of saying what I wanted to say in front of the 700 people at the Great Hall almost a month ago. So many had succinctly and accurately captured the spirit of Doug that I felt I had little to add. Had I spoken, I knew I would have been a blubbering mess.
After the memorial, I met many who felt the same – an anecdote to share, but no voice to share it. Shock, grief, and sadness paralyzed us.
Had I had the strength, however, there was one thing I would have added. Growing up with Doug and Andrew there were many things to admire. Their warmth, humour, camaraderie, and enthusiasm for all things were infectious.
Take 20 seconds right now to think of one instance where you remember something about Doug…
My guess is that many of you remembered his smile, his mischievousness, his wit, or his genuine interest in what you were saying. Or perhaps your reflection was based upon an event that involved music, cooking and eating, being outdoors, or a particular conversation you’d had with him.
During our teenage years I was quite aware that these qualities were rare and something to emulate. Doug and Andrew were attentive listeners keen to support and encourage others. In short, the twins made you want to become a better friend.
Doug has modelled what it means to be a good friend all his life and never was it more evident than in the Great Hall on March 26, 2014. We gathered together that Wednesday because of our friendship with Doug Queen. I will miss and love my buddy for as long as I have the capacity to remember him. I hope we can continue his legacy showing others what it means to be a better friend.
Our thoughts are with your family.
We so enjoyed the music and singalongs which Doug and Andrew led so happily. We have many happy memories to be thankful for and our sympathies and affection are with you.
Dear Trish and family,
Our deepest sympathies to you and the boys. I feel for you and understand the pain that you are going through. Doug has had a big impact on many many lives and the legacy he leaves will be a lasting one.
Much love, Ngaire
Doug was one of the most memorable teachers I had at Brock. He was friendly, and kind, and I’ll never forget the joy he always had when he got to pull out his accordion to accompany our (dreadful) singing. He was a great teacher, and I’m saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Doug and his brother Andrew were close friends of my brother Sandy who passed away in 1999. I recall how supportive they both were to him during his illness.
Mr. Queen has been my daughters’ teacher (in JK and SK) for the past two years at Brock PS – teaching her music and gym. My daughter (Evangeline, who is 5 years old) decided last year that she wants to be a singer ‘when she grows up’. I will never forget the day she came home from school at four years old saying how much she loved music class and her teacher Mr. Queen, who was teaching her all of these new songs to sing. I had many encounters with Doug over the last few years. From what I have gathered, he was a lovely, sweet soul who cared about his students. When I ask Evangeline what she wants to say to Mr. Queen, she yells loudly “I love you soooo much Mr. Queen!” When I ask her what is the first thing you think of that he taught you? She does all the actions and sings ‘the chicken dance’! We are so sad. My heart hurts. My deepest sympathy goes out to Doug Queen’s family and dear friends. He was a shining light at Brock that touched so many people.
Sincerely, Sally Morgan and Evangeline Morgan Gribbin
I went to high school with Doug and Andrew. The memories have flooded back of our times spent in the music room practicing with the Gold Band and Mr. Hill. Rest in Peace Doug!
I am so honored to have been a student of Mr.Queen at Brock Public School. I remember Mr.Queen always taking us on fun field trips and singing songs in his music classroom. I truly believe Mr.Queen was the driving force to my own musical talents and passion for singing and playing guitar. Thank you for all the amazing times together and I am so lucky to say that I was taught by one of the most amazing, creative, inspiring, funny, FUN, caring, kind teachers EVER. My prayers go out to his friends and family, and all of his students past and present. – Melissa (Class of 2005)
A song of living
“Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die.
I have sent up my gladness on wings, to be lost in the blue of the sky.
I have run and leaped with the rain, I have taken the wind to my breast.
My cheeks like a drowsy child to the face of the earth I have pressed.
Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die.
I have kissed young love on the lips, I have heard his song to the end,
I have struck my hand like a seal in the loyal hand of a friend.
I have known the peace of heaven, the comfort of work done well.
I have longed for death in the darkness and risen alive out of hell.
Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die.
I gave a share of my soul to the world, when and where my course is run.
I know that another shall finish the task I surely must leave undone.
I know that no flower, nor flint was in vain on the path I trod.
As one looks on a face through a window, through life I have looked on God,
Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die.” – Amelia Burr, American poet (1878 – 1968)
I’ve worked at Geneva Park for the last 3 years where i became familiar with the Queen family.
I taught my very first swimming lesson to Dylan, Doug dropped him off and jumped in with him at the end of the lesson to help out despite the frigid temperatures. Doug always had a smile on his face and he was a pleasure to talk too.
My condolences go out to all his friends and family.
A wonderful celebration of Doug Queen’s life. My prayers and condolences to his family, Trish and his beautiful boys. Music does help heal the soul and there was plenty of it today. A beautiful gathering of family and friends ( standing room only !) celebrating the life of an extraordinary Soul. RIP Douglas Queen. XO
When our son Michael got married, son David (Dave O’Rama) arranged for Jughead to play at the wedding reception. We never stopped dancing.
As a retired principal I can be assured that Doug was gift to his school. Music teachers bring energy and enrichment to schools. Tom and I are so sad that we won’t get to hear Jughead in person .
It was the summer of 1983 and Doug and I both worked at the Ministry of Education on Bay Street. I had just graduated from university trying to decide on my next move and Doug was there for some work experience. When I recently heard Douglas Queen’s name on the radio, my heart dropped. Over the years I had wondered what had become of that tall and talented boy who made my work term so much fun. I’m glad he went on to have a fulfilling family and professional life. I will always smile when I think of Doug. My condolences to the extended family for this tragic loss.
After being a Geneva Park summer staff over the last couple years, the Queen’s had become familiar August faces around the gym and tennis programs.
But it was during a sing song set up, that I first really met Doug. As we chatted, I learned that he was a teacher at Brock, where my uncle had once been a principal and where my cousins had gone to school!
That evening before sing song, Doug shared with me some memories of when he taught my cousin Evan, who had passed away a year earlier in a work accident. It meant a lot to me and I was so glad to have been scheduled for sing song that night.
My condolences go to Dylan, Jack , Trish, and all of Doug’s family and friends.
I had the privilege of working with Doug at Brock for the past 5 years. Doug had a smile that lit up a room! He was an outstanding individual — positive, kind, talented, but also shy and humble. It’s obvious that he had a deeply positive impact on the lives of so many people. Doug was one of the most decent people I’ve ever met. He brought a great deal of happiness to his students, colleagues and of course his family, whom he treasured. This is a truly heartbreaking loss.
49 years ago I was the baby of the Queen family and being the youngest and cutest I was spoiled rotten.
I learned that Mom was having a baby and I reasoned that I must have let them all down somehow and I started to come to grips with not being the darling of the family anymore.
Then one day Margret came running across the street yelping with joy that Mom had Twins! Everyone seemed so excited with this news! I was very confused because I thought Mom was having a baby. Now instead of a Baby; Mom had something called twins … I now reasoned that she must have had something cute like a chipmunk!
In those days children werent allowed in as visitors in the hospital and it was also the first time I was seperated from Mom and I could only wave at my Mom from the parking lot, She also had something big in her arms and I was very troubled by what everyone was so excited about.
Sensing my unrest one of the neighbourhood parents asked me how I felt about the Twins, (always trying to be poltically correct and wise beyond my years I said “great”.) He then said that the Queen family will be able to field quite a baseball team now. Never having watched a baseball game before I turned on the TV and watched my first baseball game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Minesota Twins. So I now figured this Twin thing that Mom had must be a baseball mega god like Tony Oliva or Harlem Kilebrew who both crushed home runs for the Twins that day.
Finally after a week in the hospital Mom came home with Andrew and Doug.
From that day forward the Twins brought no end of joy and happiness to our family.
Doug was a spectacular man in every way. I know more than anything else he would want to be remembered for what he was;
A great teacher, husband, father, brother and a Twin.
What a wonderful message!!
Your family baseball team can stand proud as the most deserving of a World Series Championship!
My thoughts are with you all today.
Rest Peacefully Doug
When I worked at Brock the best memory I have is hearing that accordion blaring … the most fun sounds for children to hear! He never seemed to stop smiling … I will miss him. A real gem of a soul …
We had the good fortune of having Doug as our 6 year-old daughter’s music teacher at Brock P.S. for the past couple of years. She was so very fond of him. I never had the opportunity to get to know Doug very well but I always felt that he was a special person who had such an amazing positive and contagious energy about him. He was always so smiley and friendly – he was just someone you wanted to be around. We will miss him. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
Trish – words are very difficult to describe the profound loss we feel.
These are some of the memories that tug at our hearts when we think of Doug and your dear family:
We remember the wonderful music that filled our hearts and minds in our many family gatherings, and summers at Geneva Park.
We remember Doug’s velvety deep voice and that unusual laugh, which would sometimes come out like a drone sound! (Brother Dave knows what I’m talking about.)
We remember how loving Doug was to Dylan and Jack, and how proud he was of them.
We loved our March break vacation we shared with you on St. George Island in Florida.
We remember the beautiful wedding on Centre Island that marked the beginning of your married life.
The feeling we had when being around Doug was like a breath of fresh air. When we remember him, we will take a deep breath and feel the beauty that was his life.
He was taken too soon from us.
“Only the good die young” .
Trish, Dylan and Jack, we will hold Doug’s memory close in our hearts forever.
“If you have a warm and caring heart, you’re loved ones will ensure you never depart. For long after you’ve turned that final page you’ll still be right there on center stage.”
― Stanley Victor Paskavich
Doug will always be part of so many peoples lives, how could he not.
I was hanging out with Doug and Andrew, and the Jughead crew in the early nineties. After almost twenty years, the good times we all had seemed like yesterday, young, connected, and with new experiences living in the musically vibrant downtown part of Toronto. I travelled to the east coast with Jughead on tour and dove more in to my love of photography and music, with Jughead as my subject with beautiful backdrops. Doug was constantly in awe and open to everything that stood before him, and constantly made me laugh. I am a musician today inspired by Doug’s love and dedication to music back then. I saw Doug only a handful of times since I moved west in ’96. I last saw him at the Jughead reunion when they played the Horseshoe, same warmth and his same big smile. I feel so sad and heart heavy for Andrew and families, Trish and their boys, friends and students that I know are greatly impacted by this loss.
I knew Doug and Andrew and Trish in the Jughead days of weekend afternoon gigs. Doug is an awesome being who danced, sang and smiled his way into everyone’s heart. He lived by the adage “Love everybody and make them your friend.”(Moody Blues).
I chance met up with Doug not too long ago and his warmth and gratefulness still abound. It felt good to reconnect briefly.
I am grateful to have had known such a wonderful, caring, enigmatic, thought provoking person as he.
As he lives on in all who have touched him. I pray that you, all of Doug’s family and friends find the joy and peace that he shared with us all, to comfort you forever.
Love Nancy
I thank you Doug for your commitment, kindness and love to the students and staff at Brock.
You have a long history that precedes me being here.
One of my fondest memories of you is your passion for music, creating music, our Brock song for staff and students, our choir, our school concerts and all of your contributions to our community.
These memories made me realize how much I learned from you. Your kindness, your caring and your joy will always be with me.
The students, staff and community shared their memories in a book and it will be shared with the family as a reminder of a teacher who cared and taught us so much. We will keep your memory alive.
Still trying to make sense of it all, such a needless tragedy that has happened.
I’ve got so many memories of Doug from our time at Geneva Park since we were kids. Doug was the first to stand up for me and say “take your act somewhere else” when some knucklehead kid was ragging on me about my deafness – back then, it was the Archie Bunker era of political incorrectness so people were a little freer to be insensitive. That was Doug.
When my brother was in the hospital after being diagnosed with cancer, Doug took time out to go and visit him. That was Doug.
I remember the time when a fellow summer staff member at GP mentioned she didn’t have the money to go get a proper hair cut, so Doug offered to cut it for her. This girl had a rather elaborate hair style, and I’m not sure that Doug actually knew how to cut hair but he did his best, and she wasn’t all that thrilled with it … but that was Doug! He was always wanting to lend a hand or help somebody out regardless of the situation.
I’ll always remember arrival day on the first Saturday of our annual stay at Geneva Park as a cottager when you’d see Doug and Andrew ambling along the cottage line saying their ‘hellos’ to everyone they passed along the way.
Doug was a larger-than-life presence who touched people in so many different ways – working with children, hanging out with other staff, through his music, and just being a friend. He’ll be greatly missed.
I met Doug at my school around 1994 when he and Andrew had just graduated from teachers college. He was magical with the kids at Ossington Old Orchard public school. I really liked him and his brother and bumped into Doug from time to time over the years. I was always very happy to see him. He’s one of those people I felt a kinship with but never got around to exchanging numbers. Our circles crossed too rarely and too briefly. But I feel that we were friends and I’m sad too that we’ve lost him. I wish I’d known him better.
Doug was my teacher in the third grade when I was still a newcomer to Canada. I will never forget one day when I still felt a little bit insecure about my english speaking/writing skills, Doug asked me to read one of my stories in front of the class when we were all sitting at the carpet. I remember him telling the class “can you believe only a few months ago this girl could not speak a word of english and is now one of my best writers!”. Such a simple gesture has never left me. This is how I will always remember him, a warm-spirited, music-loving, dedicated teacher, who beyond a shadow of a doubt has impacted the lives of many children throughout his career. To his family and friends, my condolences and my prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God be with you and provide you with comfort in your hearts.
Rest in peace.
Doug … you brought so much joy & positive energy & talent with you … knowing you & playing with you was such a treat … though I’ve only seen you a handful of times over the past 15yrs or so, every time it was as if we’d hung out all the time … I’m proud to have called you a true friend … no words can describe my sorrow … rest easy
Trish, Andrew … I can’t imagine …
I posted this to facebook, but wanted to share it with the family:
“I and my friend Cindy worked with Doug many years ago at an Insurance company where Doug and I worked as “Temps”. I remember we used to go for cheap beer and wings nights at the many establishments in the financial district. One memory I have of Doug was him spinning on the dance floor at Sammy’s Exchange with his arms straight out and his head tilted up while we “shorties” danced around him. I’m sure the many banker types occupying the booths were looking at us and thinking “gee, remember when we used to be happy and fun”. He looked so blissfully happy, so full of joy and childlike enthusiasm. He was a special person and I hope he knew that….”
We were so sad to hear the tragic news. We have such fond and treasured memories, being with Doug and his wonderful family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We will always remember Doug’s energetic spark and love of music.
Howard and Randi
I was so saddened to hear this tragic news.
I remember Doug and Andy when they were about 6 years old, and part of the children’s program at Geneva Park, where I was music director in the early 70’s. Cute and keen!
More recently, Doug has contributed so generously to our singsongs at GP, and offered his expertise for the teens’ jam sessions.
He will be greatly missed.
Would this be the Allison Liversidge who once taught years ago at Queen Elizabeth Public School in Peterborough?
Went to Scarborough College with Doug and Andrew and spent 5 years trying to make sure I did not call them by their brothers name! When I think of Doug and those days, only good times come to mind.
My thoughts and prayers are with Doug’s family and friends.
Although I had only met Doug a few times at Janis and Jim’s home, I remember him being a smiling kind of person. Very engaging, very warm and very approachable. Like he is in the picture above. I will remember him this way. I am touched by all the wonderful notes here. He has taught many and will be missed by many. Rest in peace Doug
I didn’t know Doug myself, but my husband and step-daughter knew him very well. He taught my daughter for a brief time, too. The photos you have shared here are a glowing tribute to a man well-loved and a life well-lived. We are devastated that this wonderful life was cut short, but also amazed and inspired by the love that surrounds the whole family. Our hearts are with you – with very much love, Marina, Mark, Felicia, Lyla and Charlie
Our deepest sympathy to all the Queen family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I am still at a loss for words to describe the depth of pain I feel at the loss of Doug Queen. Shaddick family dinners will never be the same and I will miss his HUGE hugs and his patience and ability to have such amazing discussions with my son Jacob. Much love and sympathy to both the Queen and Shaddick families as they deal with this tremendous loss.
My heart goes out to Trish and the boys. Doug is the easy going kind of person that everyone will always remember.
Will miss you.
As the Etobicoke Basketball league started up last fall and as a first time coach I wasn’t sure what to expect other than I would work with ten 9 year olds to develop some skills and mostly have fun. Dylan was one of those boys and I was truly impressed by this gentle soul who was ready to give 100% every time we were together and who demonstrated a remarkable balance of poise, friendship with others, skill and determination. And every week Doug would bring Dylan and we would talk about random things – sometimes about basketball and the kids, the game the previous week, the plans for the weekend- and Doug always had such a vested interest in Dylan and his development and most of all making sure everyone had fun. He would always be smiling and helped out scoring or timing during the game. This seems so trivial but often there was reluctance among the parents but Doug was always willing to help and did it with such a smile and energy. On a few occasions he called me after the game to talk about what happened and how the kids did as a team.
Despite the fact that I only met Doug recently, the energy that he was able to share and the life he brought on those Saturday mornings was truly remarkable and is a wonderful showcase of his talent. He always made sure to thank me for my efforts and for that I was and will always truly be grateful.
As I read through all of the notes and thoughts he will be missed dearly by his family and friends (even new ones) and it is clear that he leaves us too soon, but I also see that there is much to celebrate as he impacted the lives of so many.
Thoughts and prayers to all … Coach Bruno
Our deepest condolences to Trish, Andrew, and the whole family over the loss of Doug. He touched a lot of lives. I found myself walking around the past couple of days thinking about his classic spotlight turns on the Jughead stage: Hush, Spaceman, and especially East Winds. One of my favourite memories was the time he invited me to Brock to play some background music at the school Christmas concert. It was wonderful to see him in that mentoring role, guiding young kids, sharing his love of music, and seeing the deep respect and love that the kids clearly returned. I also got to see Doug conduct a few choirs while my daughter was in primary school and attending some of the Kiwanis festivals in which Brock was a competitor. I was amazed at how Doug was able to get the choir to the point of paying attention, singing together, and sounding like a group. To me it would be like herding cats. Don’t think I would have the patience, but Doug was wonderful in the role. He’s inspired a lot of musicians in the making.
Take care. – Brian and Allison Morgan
Trish, Dylan and Jack
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most devastating time. It’s very hard to believe. We cannot imagine what you are all going through, Trish We always enjoyed seeing you folks when we were down at Toms. I didn’t know you folk that well until now from reading all of these condolences . Blessings to you and the boys and know that there are many friends and family who can help you. Rest in Peace, Doug.
Our deepest sympathy to the Queen family on their profound loss. Doug was such a fun and accomplished musician, son, husband and father. I know the Geneva Park community will miss him very much. Miranda, Jenn, Katie and I will be thinking about you all.
Jane Burfield
A few of Doug’s friends from “The Valley” attended the Jughead Reunion show at the El Mocambo back in the fall. I remember Doug having an absolute blast, and being so happy to be able to share his music with us. I “liberated” a fantastic Molson Stock Ale pint glass from the club that night, and I’ll remember Doug fondly every time I sip from it.
Doug’s infectious smile will be missed in our neighbourhood (and elsewhere, of course). He was such a good-natured, thoughtful soul.
It’s fantastic seeing those photos from the Jughead days, as I’ve only known Doug a few years. It’s wonderful how he always seems to use his entire face to smile. And the HAIR! I always assumed that Jack and Dylan inherited their flowing locks from Trish!
My deepest sympathies to Doug’s entire family and circle of friends. May you find some comfort in knowing that Doug quite clearly touched more lives in his 49 years than most do in twice that time.
Doug was my Grade 3 teacher at Brock Jr Public School in 1997/98 – the last teacher I had before moving to Scarborough midway through the year.
He was warm, funny, and friendly. He told us to call him “Doug”, because he had “a brother who was also a teacher in another city,” and he “couldn’t understand how my brother could stand being called ‘Mr. Queen’ all day… so just call me Doug.” And so we called him Doug, told him our stories, shared in his laughter, and learned together.
He taught us grammar. I mastered how to sound out letters with him. The long and short vowels. He’s one of the reasons I believe in the phonetic style of teaching spelling. I remember he used to react hilariously to the sound of the blackboard screeching. He was the first teacher to recognize my strengths and talents. He encouraged me and told me he “knew I could do it”.
About a month or two after I moved to Scarborough and transferred schools, I got a package in the mail. It contained letters from everyone from my old class. It was the first time anyone had written something personal for me. It was my first gift.
I was so incredibly, unbelievably touched.
And I intuitively knew, even then, that Doug had organized it. I remember being able to picture him getting the class to “write Sam a letter”, and I remember wishing I was still in his class and yet feeling so special at the same time.
16 years later – I’m a teacher myself.
Doug, you’re one of the reasons why.
I never got to tell you. I never went back after I moved to tell you what an inspiration you were – how you were the one to teach me to spell; to make learning fun; and to show me what a caring teacher could do for a classroom of hyperactive children. But you were, and I’ll never forget that.
I’m a teacher now, and I’m going to try to show the same kind of passion, caring, kindness and commitment to teaching my students that you did teaching me. That’s way easier said than done. But you once told me ‘I know you could do it’, so – just like all those years ago – I’m going to try.
Rest in peace.
Samuel Low
A dear friend of mine and such a good friend to me.
I love you Doug.
Safe journey.
Here’s some traveling music for you.
http://dailysplice.com/383344-station/play/episode-1113369
I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Doug at Kensington/Horizon back in 1997. He was an amazing dedicated teacher. His smile and music said it all! To Doug’s family…may the love of friends and family bring you comfort..and loving memories heal your heart.
Rest in peace Doug – you will never be forgotten.
So heartbroken. The world has lost an amazing teacher, colleague and friend. Thank you for your wisdom, your smile and your presence. You were the first person to see me as an “official supply teacher” at Brock. You knew my happiness because you knew how wonderful it was to be a teacher.
Rest well, Doug.
You are so missed and loved.
Ms. Joy
I had the honour and privilege of working with Doug while I was teaching at Brock. I was just starting out in the education profession and I was Doug’s neighbour teaching grade 2. Having Doug beside me was a great experience. He was always there to listen to my questions and provide some much needed advice. He was a great listener and I always loved the fact that he would always be able to pick my spirits up with his positive attitude and humour. Doug I will always remember you for your warmth, positive attitude and passion for teaching and music. You were one of a kind and will be missed.
Our deepest condolences. Our son had Doug while at Brock school. He was one of his favorite teachers. He always had a smile for you and he loved his students.
We are so very sorry for your loss.
Ed, Sandra and Anthony Caetano
I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Doug back in 1997 at Kensington/Horizon schools. He was a dedicated teacher and wonderful friend. He always brought a smile to everyone who met him. That was Doug … always smiling. He loved his music – and it showed! To Doug’s family … may the care of friends and family bring you comfort and loving memories heal your heart.
Rest in Peace Doug – you will never be forgotten.
May God give you and your families strength during this very difficult time. Although I did not personally know Doug it’s easy to see that he touched so many lives with his caring persona and all who knew him are better for it.
R.I.P., Doug.
Dear Trish, Dylan and Jack:
Please accept our sincere condolences , we pray daily for your dear Doug and all of you to help you get through this most difficult loss …
We love you all.
Sincerely, Tom & Marge
I’ve been trying to figure out what to say about Doug and I’ve come up with many, but the best one is he was a friend. Rest in peace my friend you will be missed.
RIP Doug Queen
I lost a good, old friend yesterday.
Gentle, warm, quick to laugh, deep thinker, inquisitive, friendly, compassionate, musical, fellow enjoyer of life.
Music, Mr Hill, Algonquin chewing tobacco, Steer Inn.
Why? Why now?
‘Grief demands an answer but sometimes there isn’t one.’
Former Chief Editor Tom Hammerschmidt
House of Cards
S2E2
On behalf of the entire Randall family of Richmond hill, please accept our deepest condolences on the tragic passing of Doug. He made a difference in many lives and those who knew him are better for it. Your loss is immeasurable.
Always remember the good times.
Lynn, Cliff, Wally, Doug, Christine, Russ Randall
Doug, you left us too soon.
I still remember when you were teaching us compound words in the third grade and one student asked if asking was a compound word; none of us could stop laughing.
I’ll never forget you.
I’ve only known Doug since just shortly before he and Trish were married, and during that span we’ve spent many happy family times together. I’ll always remember our shared experiences around food and cooking, music, DIY jobs around the house (at which we were both eager yet highly unqualified), and growing up in a large family.
Last summer sitting out under the stars we were discussing music from our youths – specifically progressive bands from the 70s. Bands we liked and songs we remembered. The next day he wrote me to tell me about a particular song he had been trying to remember (his favorite Moody Blues song, even more striking now since he would have been 3 years old when it came out) – here it is, as he described it, “a most beautiful melody”.
Mostly though I remember how impressed I was by Doug as a father. His love for his boys is what I found truly admirable. He was a shining example of a strong yet gentle and caring man, and the proof is in the two wonderful people he left behind for all of us to watch over.
Good job Doug.
My Deepest and Heartfelt Condolences to Doug’s Family. Terribly saddened to hear of his sudden passing. There are so many wonderful memories, friendship and laughter from our days together growing up with Doug and Andrew at Geneva Park. Memories of Happiness.Although we haven’t seen each other in several years, you were thought of often! Andy my heart and thoughts are with you .Rest In Peace Doug, gone but never forgotten. Healing Blessings to you all!
Doug was an exceptional teacher in all aspects. I was his student 14 years ago and I can still remember sitting on the carpet with the other students singing “Puff the Magic Dragon” while he played the accordion. Thank you for teaching the 10-year old me how to use Google!
May you rest in peace.
Rest in Peace Doug – My condolences to the entire Queen family
I feel so heartbroken of Doug’s passing. I just met him over 4 weeks ago. He was such a heartwarming and kind gentleman. I will keep him and Doug’s family in my prayers. R.I.P Doug!! You will be truly missed.
From: The Longo’s
I am so saddened to hear about Doug. It has been years since I have seen him, but he was part of my Geneva Park family, and I have only sweet memories from growing up there together.
This is my favourite quote… it pretty much says it all:
“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” Leo Buscaglia
My thoughts are with Doug’s family and friends.
As I wrote to Andrew this past week:
“I can only imagine which instrument God’s asked Doug to play up there, because guys like him don’t just go to heaven, they get angel wings and are assigned the job of jamming with the band with the heavy weights like Gabriel on trumpet. What I do know is that from here on in, any time someone hears a song they know they played with Doug, or “Mr. Queen”, it’ll be like he’s right there singing in their ear. ”
RIP Mr. Queen
Grade 12 class photo. Richmond Hill High School. 1983. Although our paths have not crossed since “high school” years, your loss has had a profound effect on me. I remember you as a very kind and caring person filled with happiness and enthusiasm…a great big smile always on your face. My deepest and heartfelt condolences to your family and huge network of friends.
Dear Trish, Dylan and Jack,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Doug was “larger than life”. His never ending smile and zest for life was contagious. He was always giving and his musical talents were an inspiration. I will miss the sing songs he lead at GP and standing in line together for craft shoppe sign ups. I hope you will continue with the tradition of family camping that he loved so much. We will miss Doug terribly.
The Rhynas (Roberts) Family
I didn’t really know Doug well but did have the pleasure of a few, very pleasant conversations with him while waiting for the Warren Park bus. There was a period a few years ago when he would wave to his children from the bus stop every morning – they would press their little faces against the living room window and would not budge until they saw him step onto the bus! It was the cutest thing and always brought a smile to my face. Of course, Doug always seemed to have a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed in the neighbourhood.
My deepest sympathy to the young family of such an outstanding and dedicated teacher and musician. It seems like God needed a conductor in his heavenly sphere to lead the songs in the key of life. Rest in Peace Mr. Queen.
To Trish, Dylan and Jack … Eloise, Lillie, Alison and I are so deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Doug. I will always remember him as the first person to greet me on the bus to Jane station shortly after we moved to the valley back in 2003. His gentleness and smiling face were always a welcome sight. Even though it’s been a few years since we moved, we all still remember you fondly and send you our warmest thoughts and prayers.
Doug you always united the entire school through music. You made people smile. Your gifts will live on in the lives you touched. You will always be special. My most heartfelt sympathies to your family. Godspeed.
Doug was a marvellous teacher and human being. I will forever remember the spelling bees, lessons in cursive writing and jamming with us on his accordion. As an alumnus of Brock PS, I can confidently say 3rd grade was my absolute favourite year during my time there. I wished I had the nerve to tell him that when I met him again years later while refereeing a student vs staff softball game (behind the scenes, he told me to give every opportunity for the students to win).
I was devastated to learning of your death, but you will never be forgotten.
RIP Doug.
So sad that this lovely smiling person is gone.
So sad , never went to school together but we grew up in the same neighbour hood and when I saw both Andrew and Doug at another friends memorial a year ago it was like talking to old friends, R.I.P. life is a dash…..
I will miss Doug forever. He was a wonderful friend and I will always treasure the memories of shared time and travel with him.
My heart goes out to you all.
I had the honor of learning from Doug in grade 3-4 and for years he’s taught many family members of mine. He was always smiling and everyone can see the passion he had for his students. You were always there for me, and years later, when I visited you at Brock you still had the same passion for your students and smile on your face. You will always be remembered as one of the best teachers I had growing up.
Rest in peace Doug.
Doug was my music teacher for a few years during my time at Brock. Even though I was clearly hopeless at playing the recorder, he didn’t give up on me. His love of music and positivity were always so infectious. I still see the impact he had not only on myself, but on many of my peers from Brock.
Rest in peace Doug. You were loved.
He was one of the most positive teachers. He would always be grooving and snapping his fingers to a beat whenever I saw him in the hallways. I had the honor to learn from Doug in grades 3 and 4. The best memories were of him playing his accordion, which would always clear any stress in the air and fill the classroom with immense positive vibes. You are a legend Doug. My condolences to your family and you will never be forgotten.
I’ve had the honour of working with Doug for 16 years! Doug wasn’t just my colleague but my dear friend. Words cannot explain how deeply devastated I am for the tragic loss of such an amazing friend. Doug taught all my children at Brock and was currently teaching my 8 year old daughter music. The hallways will always echo with your whistle. I always knew when you were coming to the office cause I could hear you. Our staff wasn’t just people working together, we were and still are a family who have lost a member! Together we give each strength to hold one another up! Your love has touched so many lives and continues to even though you are not here. So many people are going to learn from your passing. What could be so wonderful then to be able to continue teaching beyond life? You will never be forgotten Doug.
I had the pleasure of having Doug as my teacher at Brock in grade 3 and 4. He was always personable, funny, and very caring. I remember one time he walked over to my house to give me his computer because I did not have one at that time. He never wanted us to call him Mr. Queem, but always Doug, which is indicative of how down to earth he was! He was a wonderful musician, and excellent teacher. I am very lucky to have have had met him and his laughter will leave an imprint in my heart.
Rest in Peace Doug.
I was fortunate enough to have Doug as my third grade teacher for the last year I was at Brock. He left a profound linkage to the school such that the latter cannot be recalled without the former. He shared the exemplary features that one can only hope to be affected by; a passion for teaching, and sincere friendship.
Doug has taught me 14 years ago at Brock in a split grade 3/4 class. I will always remember him as a man who wanted nothing more than a good education for kids. I specifically remember when he taught me the difference between ‘Along’ and ‘A long’. It’s the small stuff that matters.
Rest in peace
Although I never had Mr. Queen as a teacher, he was always a cheerful and inspiring figure at Brock. He will be missed.
He is an amazing man and teacher❤️ I was blessed to have him as a music teacher and gym teacher. He had taught myself and many other family members of mine. Thank you for always being there for your students with a big smile and nothing but love. I wish I could have told you one last time how great you are. Rest In Peace.❤️
A beautiful perfect love.
I don’t know what to say, except thank you Doug for the most wonderful family get togethers. Trish and you are the glue. God speed.
