It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas Vernon White, who died peacefully on September 20, 2026, aged 84.
Doug was born on April 16, 1942, in Tasmania, Australia. He married the love of his life, Jeanette, in 1965 and together they journeyed to Canada and ultimately made Calgary their home.
Doug and Jeanette shared 61 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, learning, travel, and countless memories.
He first taught with the Calgary Board of Education, before moving to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), where he spent most of his career. Doug was an instructor and Department Head, teaching English, Journalism, and Political Science.
Doug had a genuine love of words and ideas. Whether through the written word or spoken conversation, he had a unique ability to express himself, engage others, and share his perspective on the world. He was an educator in the truest sense—not simply someone who taught, but someone who encouraged curiosity, thought, discussion, and a lifelong love of learning.
His passion extended well beyond the classroom. Doug had a deep love of travel and the world, always interested in discovering new places, cultures, people, and ideas. His curiosity about the world was an important part of who he was and something he carried throughout his life.
Doug will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Jeanette; his daughters, Rachel MacDonald (Scott) and Gillian Zandee (Kenton); and his grandchildren, Lauren Zandee (David McDonald), Tristan Zandee, Matthew MacDonald and Kristian MacDonald.
He was also the cherished grandfather of Andrew MacDonald and Christopher MacDonald, who predeceased him in 2002. They remained an important part of his family and will forever be remembered and loved.
Doug leaves behind a family who will miss his wisdom, his wit, his stories, his love of words, and his unmistakable presence. His life touched many people—as a husband and father, a grandfather, a teacher, a colleague and a friend.
A memorial service will be held in Calgary at a future date in 2027. In lieu of flowers, donations to Myositis Canada in Doug’s memory would be gratefully received at www.myositis.ca/donate
Rest peacefully, Doug. Your words, your stories, and your love will stay with us always.
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