HUGH DOUGLAS RANEY
Doug Raney passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, at the Camp Hill Veteran’s Memorial Building due to congestive heart failure.
Born in 1940 in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, to Andrew and Mabel Raney, Doug spent his childhood in Ripley, ON. He proudly served in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1958 to 1986, reaching the rank of Chief Petty Officer Second Class, demonstrating his commitment and dedication to his country.
In addition to his military career, Doug was a founding member of Club 24 in Dartmouth, where he spent many years fundraising for site and program improvements. His efforts included organizing Friday night suppers, followed by open mic and jam sessions at the club. Doug spent many Christmas Eves and Christmas Days at the club, welcoming those who felt alone during the holidays. His dedication to the club and its community was immense and will be fondly remembered.
After retiring from the navy, Doug continued to work, most notably in fire and building restoration and road paving, a period that was highlighted by working with friends and fulfilling his need to stay busy.
Doug was a passionate sports fan, starting as a childhood fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers, later becoming a lifelong fan of the Toronto Blue Jays. He loved watching all sports, including being a fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Blackhawks.
However, his favourite athletes were his grandchildren, who he supported with great pride and joy. Doug’s happiest moments were spent meeting with friends, taking Marg for coffee, taking his grandchildren for ice cream, or simply jumping in the car for a tour around Nova Scotia and listening to songs from his youth. His love for these simple pleasures was a significant part of his life.
Doug leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret (nee Caldwell), now at Camp Hill; his son, Andrew, of Dartmouth; his daughter Kara (Brendon MacGillivray), of Fall River; and his cherished grandchildren, John Raney of Ontario, and Adyson, Hugh and Finlay MacGillivray. He is also survived by his sister Patt (Hugh) Mason of Kincardine; his brother David of Ottawa; and his sister Marlene Jones of Michigan.
He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Mabel Raney. The Raney family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Camp Hill for their exceptional kindness and support during Doug’s final days.
Donations in memory of Doug may be made to the QE2, Camp Hill Veteran’s Memorial site or a charity of ones’ choice.