Douglas Dolman

DOLMAN, Douglas Rolph
July 12, 1938 – September 4, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we regret to inform you of the passing of Douglas Rolph Dolman.
Beloved husband and partner of Agneta for over 55 years, loving and supportive father to Marcus and (Dee) Kristina Shepherd, father-in-law to Krista and Jonathan, a loving “Farfar” to Madison and Erik and a wonderful “Morfar” to Anna, Katherine, and Andrew.

Doug leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Having spent 23 wonderful summers in Sweden, Doug will be greatly missed by family, friends, and good neighbours on both sides of the Atlantic. A quiet, thoughtful man, Doug will be remembered for his kindness and his ability to listen to others.

Doug was born in Hamilton on July 12, 1938, the only child of Douglas William Dolman and Muriel Rolph. Northern Ontario became the home of the Dolman family and Doug would fondly remember the times spent on the outdoor rinks in Sudbury and the life-long friendships formed at Sudbury High.

Doug studied at the School of Architecture, McGill University but later switched and obtained a degree in Psychology B.Sc.. He was torn between choosing what was regarded as a responsible lifestyle by finishing his architectural studies at UBC or choosing the uncertain life of a visual artist. He chose to study art at the School of Art and Design, MMFA, Montreal. While at the school he met his future wife, Agneta, an art student from Sweden.

They married in 1968 and after having spent 7 years in Sweden, returned to Canada to start a family. In 1971, London, Ontario seemed the obvious choice for an aspiring artist and Doug soon got a chance to exhibit his paintings at Nancy Poole’s Gallery in a group exhibition in 1972 and a solo exhibition 1974. However, as the children came along, it became necessary for Doug to find a more secure day job. Responding to an ad in the LFP he applied to Canada Trust as a Design Coordinator for the many new bank branches springing up all over Canada. This was the beginning of a successful 27 year career with the company, becoming VP Administrative Services in 1977, and retiring in 1998.

Doug dedicated much of his time to serving charitable organizations in the London community including: the United Way, the London YM/YWCA, the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Doug was deeply involved in all aspects of life at Metropolitan United Church serving on many committees throughout the years.

As Canada Trust merged and became TD Canada Trust, Doug happily took early retirement to be able to paint again. He obtained a studio and immersed himself in painting with great dedication, exhibiting at Thielsen Galleries, McIntosh Gallery, EXCAVO, Stand Fine Art Services and other venues in Ontario and in Sweden.

A Memorial Service will be held at Metropolitan United Church, 468 Wellington Street (Wellington & Dufferin) at 11:00am, on Wednesday, September 20th.  Cremation will be followed by internment in the family grave, Hamilton, Ontario.

Memorial contributions to the Memorial Fund, Metropolitan United Church in Lonodon, Ontario, Doctor’s Without Borders or your choice of charity would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com