Douglas Schrage

In Loving Memory of Douglas Schrage, aged 72, who passed away on Saturday December 9, 2023, in Edmonton Alberta. Born to the late Gus and Harriet (MacDonald) Schrage on October 6, 1951, in Scotchtown, NS. Doug's life was full of unwavering determination, boundless curiosity, and a heart full of love.

Doug began his career in 1974 as a city worker for Public Works. In 1977, anticipating the birth of his first child, Amanda, Doug transitioned into the role of an Electrician for Devco. Simultaneously, he built his family's first home on Lingan Road. There he hosted memorable pool parties, games of tarbish and crib, with pots of his famous Chili for friends and family to enjoy.

Following the closure of Devco, Doug ventured into the Christmas tree and agricultural business, growing the most beautiful flowers in his greenhouse, sharing skills passed down from his father. Doug was an avid outdoorsman, cherishing fishing, swimming, gardening, and telling stories around a bonfire with his children. He loved the beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands and the Bras d’Or Lakes.

At 50, he became a Marine Engineer, exploring destinations such as the Gulf Coast of the US, the Mediterranean Sea, and landmarks like the Pyramids in Egypt.

Doug is survived by his two children, Amanda (Robert) Lachowiez and Justin Schrage, grandsons Frank and Eddie Lachowiez. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Mary Schrage, and siblings Joe, Bill (Carolyn), Karen (Rick) Rhodes, and sisters-in-law Donna (Francis) MacArthur, Shelia McNeil, Rhona (Winston) Burke, Bernice McDonald, Cheryl McDonald, and brother-in-law Earl (Ann) McDonald. Numerous nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly, also survive him.

Preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Harriet (MacDonald) Schrage, siblings Gus, Kevin, and Emma Chiasson, brothers-in-law George Chiasson, Joe McNeil, C. Daniel McDonald, Bryan McDonald, sister-in-law Gloria, niece Cheryl (Rhodes) Wurster, and nephews George Chiasson and Louis MacArthur.

  Above all, Doug was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, considering them his greatest accomplishment in life.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Doug during his final years, especially the dedicated staff of Capital Care Dickinsfield and Carolyn Cush Niemenen for their exceptional care over the past three years. Special gratitude to the staff of Sturgeon Community Hospital in St Albert for ensuring Doug's final days were as comfortable as possible.

The family plans to have a celebration of Doug's life this summer in Cape Breton. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Feed Nova Scotia in honour of Doug's kindness and giving heart.

As we mourn the loss of Doug, we take comfort in the enduring impact he had on our lives. Doug will be remembered for his love of learning, his passion for the outdoors and the immense love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he inspired. Those who touch our hearts stay with us forever. We miss you and love you always, Dad.