Douglas Alan Ianson
October 21, 1947 – October 4, 2024
Doug passed away on October 4, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Throughout 2024, his family remained steadfastly by his side, especially as his health continued to decline. In his final moments, his immediate family was at his side as he peacefully took his last breath.
Doug leaves behind his family who loved him dearly; his wife Vanessa, his daughter Vonnie (Max), his son Christopher (Jodi), his twin brother, Don (Alyson) and his two younger brothers, Bill (Lorie) and John (Sharon) and their families. Doug is preceded in death by his father, Trevor; his mother, Jean; and his younger brother, Bobby.
Everyone who knew Doug understands the profound loss of his passing. Doug was a writer with a unique gift for lightening the mood of any room he was in – delivering his jokes and comments in a subtle, understated way. His humour relied on cleverness and wordplay often catching people pleasantly off guard. The tone of his humour was both amusing and thought-provoking – he left a lasting impression on anyone who had the pleasure of experiencing it.
Doug dedicated over 25 years of his career to communications with the CBC, a role that reflected his passion for media and storytelling. He spent his summers volunteering at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, a tradition he always looked forward to, and lasted close to three decades. Positioned in the Media Tent, Doug became a familiar and friendly face and was known to spend his spare time socializing in the beer gardens with his friends and family.
Doug was a genuinely kind-hearted man who showed compassion to everyone he met. He had a love for browsing thrift stores in search of bargains, and when he didn’t find a leather treasure for himself, he would generously pass along his amazing finds to a family member or someone in need. He had a special place in his heart for all dogs, but was especially fond of his daughter’s dogs, Scooter and Paco, who always brought a smile to his face. His warmth, generosity, and compassion—toward both humans and animals—were the essence of who he was.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff at Capital Care Grandview. The exceptional care and support Doug received during his final months will always be remembered by the Ianson family. We are profoundly grateful that he was able to spend this time in the hands of such dedicated and compassionate caregivers.
At Doug’s request, there will be no funeral service. However, his family plans to hold a Celebration of Life in the Spring of 2025 to honor his memory.
He is already deeply missed.
My deepest condolences to the entire Ianson family. Rest in Peace Doug?.
My Deepest Condolences to the entire Ianson family, Doug we miss you, continue to rest in the Blossom of the Lord.
My heart goes out to you and your family Vonnie. Your dad was an amazing individual.
Vonnie, how blessed you were to have a father so loved and who so loved. I am sending you and your family my condolences for your loss.
My deepest condolences, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
My deepest condolences to all the family. He’ll be missed.