Douglas Baptiste passed away suddenly at his home in Hamilton on Thursday, May 4, 2023 in his 77th year. Loving husband to Sue, and much-loved father of Nathaniel (Tracy), Charles (Drea) and Sarah (Tamer), and remembered by Sarah’s mother Susan. Predeceased by his father Raymond (2003) and mother Glenna (2023). Brother to Anthony (Roberta) and Greta (David). Caring and involved grandfather to Xavier. Cherished uncle to thirteen nieces and nephews and great uncle to twenty-five great nieces and nephews.
Douglas ‘Doogie’ was born in Gonzales, Port of Spain, Trinidad where he relished his time as a leader for the “Sheikhers”. The Sheikhers engaged in their community in many ways influencing his passion for his home and caring for others. He Immigrated to Canada in 1968 and began his long career in social work. Douglas dedicated his career to helping troubled youth and their families. He focused his practice upon mentally ill and violent youth, providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to thrive. His compassion and understanding made a significant impact on the lives of many, and will be remembered as a true mentor and hero to those he helped.
Douglas had many passions, including the art of working with wood for which he gained many accolades. He was always eager to share his knowledge and experience with others and loved spending time in his home workshop.
Douglas loved cooking and good food! His meals were always a hit among family and friends. He especially loved when he could bring his family and friends together through his love of food.
Friends and family are invited to an open house celebration of life for Douglas at his home, 65 Harold Court, Hamilton on Wednesday, May 10th from 4:00 to 8:00
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to https://amadeusz.ca/support/donate and/or to https://www.foryouth.ca/donation-page-embedded.
I am so sorry for your loss. Doug, thank you so much for the greatest of times and the generous hospitality you provided over the years. I will never forget the conversations we had, as well as the conversations we didn’t have – meaning when we were just two introverts standing by the smoking BBQ, watching everybody enjoy the incredible lengths that you and Sue went to make them feel at home. Your few words were never lost on me and I’m grateful for each and every one. I look forward to the opportunity to celebrate your life amongst family and friends.
I am gutted to hear this. Doug was the first therapist I had as a teenager and he was an enormous help to me at a very important time of my life. He was always so incredibly empathetic but also always smiling and reassuring. He was definitely one of a kind and the world will miss him
I worked for many years with Doug at Syl Apps Youth Centre. Doug was so impactful for the youth that we worked with. Doug was a wonderful mentor and I was able to learn so much from this man. Condolences to the family and friends.
Sue, I am saddened to read of Doug’s sudden passing. My condolences to you and your family. Thinking of you. Hugs. …..Beth
My deepest condolences to all of you in the Baptiste family. I have several wonderful lifelong memories of your yearly backyard cookout with Mr. Baptiste at the helm, cooking some amazing food. We all went home with belly’s and hearts full of joy! Thank you so much for those amazing days which I will always cherish, he will be missed!
May you rest in peace, Dougie. Heartfelt condolences to Sue and the children. Sleep well cousin until we all meet again some day.
Brenda Burke – Seattle, Washingon
(Cousin)
Condolences to Sue and family.May his soul rest in peace.
Sue and family,
I am very sorry to read about the passing of Doug. It is obvious that he was loved and respected by all who knew him. I hope your loving memories of such a fine man will help you through.
Luanne
Sue, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. May it bring you comfort to know you are in other’s thoughts and prayers. My condolences to the family.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”
Doug was very important to me, and I’m so sad he’s gone.