August 'Gus' Abe Doell

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of August “Gus” Abe Doell on February 18, 2025, at the age of 84. Gus is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Marsha Doell; his children, Allen (Cheralyn), Dixie (Bob), and Ellen, from his previous marriage to the late Judy Doell (née Jensen); his granddaughter Desiree; and his grandsons Tavyn, Auslen, and Kaplan. He is also survived by his siblings: Marie (late Ray), Lorna (late Pius), Fred (Dianne), Larry (Darlene), Bob, Dianne (Jerry), Donna (Jack), Myrna (Gord), and Monty (Lynn). Gus was predeceased by his eldest brother, Jim. He is further survived by many adoring nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Gus spent his career as an accomplished Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker, ensuring that countless homes stayed warm, especially those of his family and friends, whose furnaces he kept running long after his retirement.

Through the years, Gus took great pride in maintaining his home and garden, lovingly tending to his flowers, which were often displayed for the many weddings held in his backyard.

Never one to shy away from raising a cheer with a glass of homemade hooch in hand, donning cowboy boots with shorts, or adding a touch of flair with suspenders, Gus was always ready to throw a party and be the hospitable host. The life of every gathering, Gus’ welcoming smile and booming laugh filled every room. Often the first one on the dance floor, his cheeky humor and charming demeanor made him all the more lovable.

Over the years, Gus kept active playing softball, curling, and bowling, with his quick wit making him a favourite teammate! He enjoyed many years of camping, fishing, and taking cherished trips to Hawaii and Las Vegas.

Gus enjoyed life to the fullest, finding joy in the simplest of pleasures such as getting lost in a good Western novel, watching hockey, football, or curling, spending time with family and friends on his Tiki-inspired deck, trying his luck at the casino, enjoying a beer with the locals at his neighborhood pub, or simply sitting back and listening to music.

Above all, family was the center of his universe. Whether helping raise his granddaughter, driving his daughter to run errands, visiting his daughter in Victoria, attending his son and grandsons’ music gigs, catching up over Sunday wings with his siblings, welcoming a family member to stay in his home, or traveling to a family reunion, Gus was happiest when surrounded by those he loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Huntington Hills Community Association Lounge (520-78 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB) to honour Gus’ incredible spirit. We will remember him with a song, a story, and a smile, just as he would have wanted.

Forever loved, forever missed.