Doug Raney of Halifax, Nova Scotia, formerly of Ripley, dies at the age of 83
By: Liz Dadson
March 4, 2024
Hugh Douglas “Doug” Raney of Halifax, Nova Scotia, formerly of Ripley, died Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, at the Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building, due to congestive heart failure. He was 83.
Born July 2, 1940, in Sault Ste. Marie, he was the son of Andrew and Mabel Raney, and spent his childhood in Ripley.
He proudly served in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1958-86, reaching the rank of Chief Petty Officer Second Class, and demonstrating his commitment and dedication to his country.
In addition to his military career, Doug was a founding member of Club 24 in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, where he spent many years fund-raising for site and program improvements. His efforts included organizing Friday night suppers followed by open mic and jam sessions at the club. He 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.
He was a passionate sports fan, starting as a childhood fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers, later becoming a life-long fan of the Toronto Blue Jays. He loved watching all sports, including being a fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Black Hawks. However, his favourite athletes were his grandchildren, whom 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.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret (nee Caldwell), now at Camp Hill; his son, Andrew, of Dartmouth; his daughter, Kara (married to Brendon MacGillivray), of Fall River; and his cherished grandchildren, John Raney of Ontario, and Adyson, Hugh, and Finlay MacGillivray.
Also survived by his sister, Patt (married to Hugh) Mason, of Kincardine; his brother, David, of Ottawa; and his sister, Marlene Jones of Michigan.
Predeceased by his parents.
The Raney family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff members at Camp Hill, 4 Westwood, for their exceptional kindness and support during Doug’s final days.
Visitation was held Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. at the Atlantic Funeral Home, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
The funeral was held Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at 2 p.m., at the funeral home, and a reception followed.
Donations in memory of Doug may be made to the QE2, Camp Hill Veterans Memorial site or a charity of your choice.
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