DOUGLAS (DOUG) STEFANSON

Condolences & Memories (7 entries)

• For those who knew Doug you will agree it could be said he had four primary passions in his life; Family, Ranching, Politics and Flying. Our friendship first started in the early seventies when we were part of a group of cattlemen exploring the new opportunities for importing exotic cattle breeds from Europe and cross breeding the best bulls with our North American domestics. Early breeding results were very encouraging and Doug was very much the active innovator and a leader among us. We travelled over numerous continents together and became good friends. We had plenty of time for dialogue, and passionate discussions usually followed into the wee hours of the morning. During the 80's and 90’s we also worked in sales and marketing for HiQual Manufacturing spending many of our days together on the road demonstrating our latest livestock handling products. Doug seemed to know everyone. He was the statesman among us, always making an effort to take time with his friends to discuss the latest issues or challenges in our lives. Doug was committed in his beliefs and when opportunity and timing allowed him to be more active; he usually jumped in with both feet. Doug was a long standing member of many agricultural associations and in the early 90’s was awarded a lifetime membership in the Manitoba Cattleman's Association. Doug was also a founding member of the CORE Party and its eventual successor, the Reform Party of Canada. Doug volunteered as a federal candidate, director and member of the executive. Lively debate was assured for all who may have a different or “convoluted” view of the world. As an avid flier he taught me the basics I did not learn at flight school. I learned to fly by the instruments and VOR's, but Doug taught me to fly with my instincts. You see Doug was a basic chart and compass man. As an example when it appeared we strayed a wee bit off course, I learned to descend to 500 feet, fly over the nearest town, locate the town name on the water tower and plot a new course on the map from there to destination. A simple and more dependable way to fly! Indeed! We will all miss Doug. We are left with fond memories of a true friend and leader, a visionary who always believed in what could be. There are many lessons we learned from Doug. My two favourites are: When you are told it cannot be done, be sure to ask why not to be sure there isn't another way. And in life... It truly is the journey that's important, not the destination! To Ruthie, Shannon, Kim, Kelly and Lisa, and all of the family, I'm sure the world is a much better place with Doug's thoughts and memories always at your side. Folklore tells us you die twice in your life. The first is the natural way when your body gives up the battle over your mind. The second is when no one is left on earth to remember you or your achievements. May your memories live a long life my friend! - Posted by: Allan Akins (Friend) on: Jan 16, 2015

• I will miss my visits with Doug. I always enjoyed our conversations about the farm, the elk prices and all the enjoyment with hearing his stories. I admired his strong presence. My condolences to your family for the loss of such a great man and family leader. - Posted by: Robert Johnson (friend) on: Sep 28, 2014

• We were surprised and saddened to read Doug's obituary. Doug was truly an interesting man and was willing to try anything. He was a great livestock promoter and did the livestock industry a lot of good when exotic cattle first arrived in Canada. My wife and I offer his family our deepest condolences. May God give you strength and encouragement during this very difficult time. Dwight Cook - Posted by: Dwight Cook (Fellow cattleman,neighbour and friend) on: Sep 28, 2014

• Sorry to hear of Doug's passing. Our condolences to the family. - Posted by: Wallace & Judy Hickman (Friend) on: Sep 28, 2014

• Ruthie, Shannon and Mark and the whole family: Sorry for your loss, but his memories will live forever. Our prayers and heart felt condolences to all of you. God bless. - Posted by: Alex and Sharon Yoong (Friend) on: Sep 28, 2014

• Ruthie & family: Judy had told me Doug was ill, but I was still surprised to read of his death. Please accept my sincerest sympathy. Wanda - Posted by: Wanda Klingbell () on: Sep 27, 2014

• Happy trails Cowboy Doug, gonna miss your daily visits and conversation at The Stagger Inn. - Posted by: Gary & Tania Swain (Friends/Owners of The Stagger Inn) on: Sep 27, 2014