Douglas (Doug) Lorne Tataryn Obituary
The world has lost a great entertainer, a loving family guy, and a curious mind. Douglas (Doug) Lorne Tataryn, born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, passed away in Nanaimo, BC, on June 18, 2026, after a five-year journey living with COPD.
Doug always loved taking the road less travelled in all aspects of life, especially on road trips. The backcountry roads of Manitoba and Alberta were always an adventure with Doug, and they were always inspired by nature.
Doug had a passion for fixing things, both at work and at home. He loved shopping for gadgets, gizmos, and tools. Even more, he loved taking apart anything brought to his workbench, figuring out how it ticked, and reassembling it to function better than before.
A childhood passion for fixing gadgets led him to become an Electronic Technologist and, eventually, to Calgary, Alberta, where he owned and operated a medical equipment service company. Deeply dedicated to his customers, Doug viewed his technical skills as a vital support for the medical community. Doug was so dedicated to his work that when he could no longer walk far, his wife pushed him in a wheelchair through hospital corridors so he could finish a service call. Health challenges necessitated an early retirement, prompting a move from Calgary to Nanaimo, where he loved exploring the island and the ocean.
Doug was a deeply caring man who loved people, kept abreast of current affairs, and always wanted to learn what made everyone and everything tick. Doug was also known as somewhat of a fashionista wherever he went, with his flashy colourful socks. Known for his irreverent humour, he recently joked that if he weren’t dying, he would have bought that toaster in the Canadian Tire flyer. More than anything, Doug loved spending time with his wife, Donna, and his dog, Buster, and he never wanted to say goodbye so soon.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 44 years, Donna; his dog, Buster; his brothers, Gordon (Shirley) and Glenn (Sheryn); many nieces and nephews; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Donna and Tom Radford; sister-in-laws, Joan and Linda Rzadkiewicz, and numerous cousins, with special thanks to cousin Rob. Doug was predeceased by his parents Marie and Paul Tataryn.
Doug made me laugh, made me cry, and most importantly, showed me what it truly means to forgive, and be forgiven. Thank you, Doug. Bye, my sunshine, my love…
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Dearest Donna,
Doug held such a special place in your heart! We know he will be sadly missed and eternally loved.
So many treasured memories. Beautiful partners in life and love. Such a gift.
All our love to you and your family,
Lori and Gerry Smith/Calgary
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Our in person and Zoom chats with Uncle Doug were always wildly entertaining. His boundless curiosity, and genuinue interest in what we were doing made for memorable conversations. He enjoyed speaking with Hannah and would go to great lengths to make her laugh, even pulling out dancing robotic birds. Uncle Doug will certainly be missed by all of us and all the people who were lucky enough to meet him. Our hearts are with you, Auntie Donna. Love from Sean, Reshal, Hannah and Adora.
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Doug Tataryn, my uncle; always made a great effort to be around for the holidays. He would share stories of travels around the world with aunt Donna, living and eating well and making the most or life. He was inspiring and a great role model, in the professional world and in life. Doug is loved by many and he will be missed. We will continue to love and keep him in our minds and in our hearts.
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So many memories with Doug…….always good for a story and some laughs.
You will be missed by many but especially Donna and Buster.
At peace now.
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Uncle Doug the happiest and most energetic person I knew.
Uncle Doug the man of the hour when he arrived always shared love everywhere he went.
I miss you so much Doug and will never forget you.
Donna hang in there i miss you aswell. We need to keep in touch.
I prey for the best healing process as I am very sorry for your loss and our loss of such an amazing man!
God needed another angel to join him in heaven. Doug will always be loved in our hearts and souls.
Signed Josh tataryn
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Always such fond and uplifting times with my uncle. I only wish we had more. I love you Uncle Doug!!! I wish I could talk to you..
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Dear Donna. Gary and I are so sorry for your loss. We often talk of the good times in Calgary with both of you as our neighbours. Take care of yourself, Donna and keep in touch.
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Tanya and I met Doug and Donna in Greece while on a vacation. He was the type of guy you liked instantly with a great sense of humour and always ready for an adventure. He kept in touch with us and you always felt you had a good friend in Doug.
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All I know it was way too soon
RIP Doug
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I will be speaking during the service.
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Sending my condolences Donna to you & your family. Doug will certainly be missed. Hugs to you & Buster! Carol, Mike & Ellie
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Doug will be missed by our family.
I will always remember our phone conversations especially when he and Donna moved to Nanaimo.
Rest in peace Doug. See you later.