Douglas Bruce Graham of Vulcan, beloved husband of Leanne, passed away suddenly at home on December 31, 2021 at the age of 76 years.
Doug had a lifelong love of animals and farming. He started his career as a veterinarian, earning his degree at the University of Saskatoon, and practiced for a short time in Pincher Creek before returning to Vulcan and switching to farming.
In addition to operating Graham Farms with his brother John, he raised pigs, then later transitioned to sheep. He would keep a careful eye on all his animals, spending lots of time after doing chores just watching and making sure that none were sick or suffering. He enjoyed the simple things: he liked to have the freshest eggs from the chicken coop for his breakfast, and he enjoyed fixing a machine when it was broken.
He was a curious and avid reader, enjoying learning about new technologies and innovations in science. He also loved to watch old western movies, and had watched every John Wayne movie at least twice.
Doug loved spending time with his wife and daughters, and then his grandchildren, playing many games of Snap, Uno and Dominoes, and indulging all the little girls in his life who wanted to “do his hair” or decorate him in necklaces and glitter.
Besides his loving wife Leanne, Doug is survived by his three daughters – Denice (Nathan) Anderson, Erin Babin and Angela Pyrch, seven grandchildren, brothers John Graham and Jim Graham, sisters Cassie Cochlan, Louise Schmidt and Sylvia Mayberry, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Russell and Carrie Graham, sister-in-law Donna Graham, and brothers-in-law Cleo Schmidt and Guy Cochlan.
At Doug’s request, there will not be a service at this time.
Tributes in Doug’s memory can be made to the Jack Ady Cancer Centre (960 – 19 St S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5), through the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences through www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca.
Sincere condolences to the Graham family. Losing a dearly loved husband, father and grandfather can leave a significant void. I hope that your fond memories, as well as the life lessons learned from him, will provide some measure of comfort to you. My sympathies.
I spent many weekends at the Graham house growing up on sleepovers with Angie. I remover Doug being very kind and accommodating to us as crazy young girls. Sending you all love during this difficult time. -Amanda
My deepest sympathies to the Graham family. Doug was a down to earth, caring person….may he rest in peace.
My sincere condolences, Leanne, Erin, Denice, Angela and families
It has been a lot of years since we lived in Vulcan. I did not know Doug but I remember Leanne from the skating club and Louise from Hazel Cameron. Small world that it is, paths crossed again several years ago when Denice and Nathan lived in Airdrie where we still live.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in your loss.
Dear Leanne, Denice, Erin, & Angela and families,
We are so sorry to hear about Doug’s (Dad’s) passing. We know he loved his family and believe he was such a home body just to be with you all. Leanne, although we seldom saw you and Doug together, we all knew he was always a large part of your life. Denice, I remember when you invited Matt to your birthday party, when you two were in elementary school. When it was pointed out that he was the only boy invited, Matt’s reply was “Her Dad will be there.” He was always there. Also whenever I ran into him in Vulcan, he always had something of interest to tell me which he had just read about.
We know he will be greatly missed by you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Leighton and Penny, Matt and Theresa
I worked for Doug and family for 5 yrs, I have very fond memories of Doug. Leanne and girls, I am so sorry for your loss. Doug was a warm, caring, smart person and I learned a lot from him. God bless you all in your time of greiving. I grieve with you.
Martin Drost
martindrost60@gmail.com
I went to school with Doug. I’m very sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences to all his family.