In Memory of

Douglas

Rossiter

Obituary for Douglas Rossiter

ROSSITER
Douglas
May 16, 1938 – August 22, 2022

Surrounded by family, Douglas Francis Rossiter passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness at the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander on August 22, 2022 at the age of 84. He is now reunited with his beloved partner of 61 years, Eileen Rossiter, who passed earlier this year (May 7, 2022).

Leaving to mourn with many fond and loving memories are his children, Susan White (John), Debbie Hovanak (Joe), Denise Lambert (Ross), Catherine Rossiter (Remy), Lisa Rossiter and Rick Rossiter (Annmarie).

Also left with cherished memories and grateful hearts are his grandchildren, Michael, Danielle, Meghan (Brad), Brittany, Bryan (Kimberly), Julia (Ben), Conor (Melissa), Alexa, Claire, Erin, Charlie and David; and great-grandchildren, Miranda, Sheyanna, Reed, Jackson, Finn, Hayden, Emerson, Alaska and Atlas, Archer and Reign.

Douglas will be missed by his brother Wayne Rossiter (Florence - deceased); sisters Doreen Bancroft and Sandra Rossiter; sister-in-law, Mary Dwyer (Kevin-deceased), Gloria Scanlon and Sue Bonderski; brothers-in-law William Scanlon, Jerome Scanlon (Noreen) as well as a large circle of nieces and nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Tori Hovanak; parents, Gerald and Catherine Rossiter; brothers William Rossiter, Gerald Rossiter and Tom Rossiter (Margaret); in-laws, Dominic and Emma Jane Scanlon; sisters-in-law, Elsie Mahar (Aloysius), Ellen Gould (Raymond), Alma Lee (Matthew), Elizabeth Prosper (Patrick); brothers-in-law, Leo Scanlon, Edward Scanlon (in infancy).

Douglas was born and lived his early years in St. John’s, NL where he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1957. During his time stationed in Torbay in 1960, he met and fell in love with Eileen. They got married and grew their large family while moving and experiencing different places within the country during his career. He proudly served in the Air Force for 20 years before retiring and entering public service with the Department of National Defence for the next 15 years.

Douglas was an avid sports fan. It didn’t matter what sport it was. If there was a game on he was watching. He often enthusiastically told stories about his time playing sports, most notably soccer in the Military. His passion for sports didn’t stop there. He developed a love for running later in life and inspired those around him to give it a try. He also was an avid hockey card collector, meeting many people over the years through this.

He was a kind and gentle person who loved spending time with family and friends and was welcoming of everyone. Through his sobriety, which he was very proud of, he reached out and helped others in the community, making many lifelong friends along the way.

Douglas went by many names, son, brother, husband, Dad, Pop and Grampy. He was a big presence and will always be remembered for his big heart, generosity and witty remarks.

Cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held for Douglas and his late wife Eileen at St. Josephs Roman Catholic Church in Gander on Thursday August 25th, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Father William Hearn with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery. Donations in memory may be made to Gander and Area Food Bank.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stacey’s Funeral Home Gander/Carmanville. Online condolences and inquiries may be directed to www.staceysfuneralhome.ca.

It’s Me
By Kelly Roper

When the sun breaks through the clouds
And a warm beam shines down upon your face,
It’s me reaching out from Heaven to touch your cheeks
And whisper, “I’m alright.”

When a gentle breeze finds you and
Refreshes your mind and body,
It’s me caressing you and reminding you,
“You’re alright too.”