Aged 72, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
Doug was born October 19, 1951, in Burk’s Falls to Mary and Douglas Roberts. When he was 16 years old, Doug spotted the love of his life walking by while he was shingling a church roof in Barrie, Ontario. He whistled once, they met soon after, and on August 7th, 1971, Doug married Barbara (Baukje) Westra and began a beautiful relationship that would span 53 years.
Doug and Barb lived in several places over the years including Simcoe, Whitby, Oro-Medonte, and Barrie. Doug’s biggest source of pride was his family. First came Kim, then soon after, Shelley, and Todd a few years later. Doug was a devoted dad and a strong presence in their lives. A constant source of stability and protection, he was fierce and loyal. He loved coaching hockey and being involved in their lives.
With a strong passion for vehicles, Doug opened his first collision repair shop at 155 Brock Street almost 50 years ago. Roberts Collision joined the Fix Auto network about 20 years ago, and Doug served on the advisory board, was a brand ambassador and became a strong champion of the network. He was a legend in the automotive industry (Rollover Roberts!) and a friend and mentor to many.
Doug’s strong sense of business contributed to his steady growth during the good times and to his survival during the hard times. He was so proud to be able to support his employees and their families. Twelve years ago, he opened Roberts Complete Auto Care, an auto mechanic shop.
Doug will be especially remembered for his commitment to fairness and integrity. He was not often a man who outwardly showed his emotions, but he cared deeply about others. He was strong willed and quite opinionated, but his capacity for love and growth was even stronger. He often organized local auto industry events, stepped in when anyone was struggling, and supported many charities. He loved to sit in the office and share stories with customers; he considered them not only friends, but family. He could dance like there was no tomorrow and was the life of the party.
Survivors include his wife Barb and their children Kim (Chad), Shelley (Derek), and Todd (Cathy). Grandchildren include Riley, Zach, TJ, and Emma. Doug also leaves behind his sister Brenda (Alf) and a large extended family of step grandkids, step great-grandkids, relatives, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Please join us for Doug’s Celebration of Life from 1pm to 5pm on Sunday, July 14th at Traditions Banquet Hall at Sheba Shrine (142 John Street, Barrie). Doug loved helping kids and making sure they had every opportunity to grow and learn. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Youth Reach, a local charity that provides grants for kids to participate in programs such as dance, music, and sports. Please donate here: https://youthreach.ca
We would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff at RVH for their wonderful care of Doug and to all of our friends and family for their love and support.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.peacefultransition.ca