Obituary of Douglas James McKinley

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With heavy hearts, the family of Douglas James McKinley “Doug”, husband of Mary Gayle (Munn) McKinley of Noonan, NB announce his passing on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Hospice House in Fredericton.  Born on July 24, 1939 in White's Cove, NB, he was the son of the late Gordon and Frances (Ellsworth) McKinley.

Doug worked as an IBM technician for 30 years before retiring in his early 50’s allowing him to indulge in his many hobbies. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing with friends and family out at his camp in Napadogan.

Doug had a passion for gardening and shared his famous tomatoes with many. Doug’s hobbies included cooking, collecting and restoring gramophones, he was skilled in small engine repairs and electronics. He dabbled in taxidermy, prospecting, and amateur radio. 

In his later years, Doug discovered a fondness for painting, capturing unique scenes that his family now cherishes as part of his lasting legacy.

Doug and Mary enjoyed many motorcycle adventures, touring all over the Maritimes and the eastern United States on his touring bike. Dad made life exciting and he will be missed by many.

In addition to his loving wife of 64 years, Doug is survived by his children, Heather Darrah (Mel), Kathleen Wilbur (Greg), Darlene Lemmon, David McKinley (Kimberly), Clark McKinley (Michele), Rebecca McDowell (Ryan); 8 grandchildren, Elizabeth Swanson (Peter), Matthew McCoy (Kate), Rachel Kaleva (Griffin), Ashley Hughes (Dylan), Alex Lemmon (Emma), Steven McDowell (MacKenzie), Andrew McDowell (Jazmin) and Sophia McDowell; 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Lloyd McKinley (Audrey) and Joanne Dilts; one cousin and several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive, Fredericton, on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 1-2 pm and will be followed directly by a Celebration Service at 2 pm with Pastor Ryan McDowell officiating.  Interment will be in Parker's Ridge Cemetery, Parker's Ridge, NB at a later date. The family wishes to thank the staff at the DECRH Palliative Care Unit and Hospice Fredericton for their wonderful care for our father. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to Hospice Fredericton.  Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com