Obituary of Douglas Maynard Dunkle

Obituary Douglas Maynard Dunkle passed away at the University Hospital in Edmonton on October 12, 2011 at the age of 70 years. He was born June 24, 1941, in Castor and spent his whole life in this area. Never very interested in formal schooling, we always felt he had educated himself through hands-on experiences, endless reading of newspapers and magazines and the pursuit of learning from others in real life situations. He loved the farm and everything connected with it; the freedom to be his own boss, the peace of country living, the timeless labour of each season, the thrill of auction sales, the challenge of inventing, building and welding in his cherished shop. Doug was passionate about baseball. As a top-notch catcher and home run hitter he was a valuable member of the Castor Orioles Team and the Drayton Valley Tiger’s Team. In later years he loved to relive the golden moments of those days with his old baseball buddies. A trip to historic Yankee Stadium was a dream come true! Winters found Doug curling, usually in the position of Skip. His many curling trophies and prizes attest to his skill. Doug always played to win but he was a true example of good sportsmanship with a huge smile and handshake whatever the outcome of the game. He accepted the challenge of drawmaster for our local men’s bonspiel with great enthusiasm. He encouraged his children to learn to curl and enjoyed every moment of their competitive curling pursuits. Doug dearly loved and was so proud of his kids and grandkids. He showed this by choosing to be involved in their individual activities and cheering them on. He thrived on family gatherings; family dinners, family reunions, family trips, family games and of course, the more the merrier! An extrovert in the highest degree, Doug had a gift for initiating conversations and putting people at ease. He treated people from all walks of life and occupations with the same genuine interest. Story telling was an enjoyable art and he was never too busy to stop and chat. Doug’s greatest gift to our family came with his acceptance of God’s grace and the change that brought into his life. We were blessed to witness the way he steadfastly held on to hope as his health deteriorated. His courageous example will be treasured by all who shared his struggle. Doug will be sadly missed by his loving family and many friends. Doug leaves to mourn his passing his loving, faithful wife, Wendy, son Dwayne (Deanna) of Castor, daughter Angela (Rob) Christensen of Spokane, grandchildren Jenessa and Darien Dunkle and Eli Trygg Christensen. Also his mother Verna Dunkle, Castor Extendicare, sister Cheryl Kolbuc of Edmonton, brother Dale (Kimberley) of Castor, niece Lisa Kolbuc of Vancouver and nephew Jeff Kolbuc (Barbara) and family of Edmonton. He was predeceased by his father, Lawrence Dunkle and brother in law Ted Kolbuc. Memorial donations gratefully accepted in memory of Doug to Our Lady of the Rosary Hospital Foundation or Castor Minor Sports.