DOUGLAS EMERSON VANCOTT (DOUG)

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DOUGLAS EMERSON VANCOTT
July 9, 1932 – December 28, 2022

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father and grandfather, Douglas Emerson VanCott, after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.
He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Helen Ruff, and by infant twin brothers. He is survived by his daughters, Janice Cuggy (Don), Tracey VanCott, and Alison Garvey (Robert); grandchildren, Jenna and Emily Cuggy and Aidan, Georgia, and Eryn Garvey; sister Doreen Campbell; sister-in-law Violet Cook (Gordon); brother-in-law George Ruff; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Doug was born in Bengough, Saskatchewan, on July 9, 1932, to Percy VanCott and Marjorie Millsap. He grew up on the family farm south of Hardy during the Dirty Thirties. The family moved to Hardy in 1940, where they owned the general store and post office. After graduating high school, he worked several jobs across western Canada before moving to Winnipeg in 1959, where he began a 30-year career with Canada Post.
It was in Winnipeg that he met Helen. They married in 1960 and raised three daughters. Doug loved fatherhood and lived for his family. We have treasured memories of him taking us swimming, skating, tobogganing, and playing baseball. He encouraged in us a love of nature, music, and learning. Many trips to the library were made with Dad. He was very involved with the Lutheran church, serving on council, singing in the choir, and teaching Sunday School. A lifelong sports lover, Doug was particularly fond of baseball and was himself a solid first baseman on local teams.
His grandchildren were the joy of his life. Poppa was an all-star grandfather who spent many fun-filled hours with them at the park, building sandcastles at the beach, and playing games in the backyard. There was often mischief and always time for a coffee break with Grandma's homemade cookies.
Doug will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, and for his devotion to his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
Donations in Doug's memory can be made to Parkinson Canada, 4211 Yonge Street, Suite 316, Toronto, ON, M2P 2A9 or online at parkinson.ca.

THOMSON "IN THE PARK"
204-925-1120
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 07, 2023