Douglas “Doug” Bailey

“You left us beautiful memories your love is still our guide.” Peacefully in the care of Leighton Hospital, Doug passed away on 12th January aged 83 years.  The beloved husband Doris “Dot”.  Much loved Dad to Kath and John also a cherished Grandad, Great Grandad and Brother who will be fondly remembered and very sadly missed.

Doug was born on the 12th July in 1939 at Pepper Street in Middlewich. His only sibling, his brother Ken, was born 4 years later. From an early age, he looked after Ken, forming a strong bond, becoming a father figure and protector, not just a big brother.

Doug’s first school was the church school in Sandbach, followed by Odd Rode school and finally the secondary modern in Sandbach.

During his life, he lived in many places locally; including one he didn’t even know he had moved to!

Doug’s first job upon leaving school, was an apprentice bricklayer. He would always turn up for work wearing a crisp white shirt and white socks, much to the dismay of his future bride Dot.

It was during this time that Doug met Dot, his teenage sweetheart. They married on the 31 March in 1962 at St. Mary’s church in Sandbach. In March last year they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

During his life, Doug worked at many places including Foden’s, British Salt, on the railways, at the Post Office, bricklaying (already mentioned) and driving for the ambulance service, retiring from the service almost 30 years ago, due to ill health. He received the Queen’s Commendation for brave conduct.

Sidelines included driving wedding cars and carpet laying.

Doug was a doting husband and brother. He was an immensely proud loving father to Kath and John. Nothing could surpass the love he felt for them – until his cherished grand-children and great-children came along.

For grandchildren he was a great role model.  He was  interested and proud  of achievements such as new jobs, houses, or marriages. Later he delighted in holding his great grandchildren. They all know he’ll continue to look after them and keep them laughing.

Dot, Kath, and John have fond memories of family times.  There were holidays abroad, and camping and caravan holidays.

Doug had various hobbies and interests. His love of playing crown green bowls also gave him many good friends. He enjoyed a game of darts or dominoes in his local pub, or a day out horse racing with a smallwager. He was also a fantastic dance partner who could dance for hours.

In later life he got a mobility scooter, but it wasn’t just any mobility scooter. This was DOUG1. And most days there were sightings of him whizzing down Middlewich Road or through Sandbach town.

He loved making things or tinkering with something that he either thought needed fixing – or now needed fixing because he had tinkered. A famous go-kart he made collapsed on its first run.

He loved socialising and spending time with his beloved family and friends. When it was the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, he closed off the road for a street party and made his own road signs. He did not see the need to ask for council permission!

Doug liked to help his family and friends. Nothing was too much trouble

Doug had so many endearing qualities. Descriptions suggested include:

A lovely, beautiful man

Selfless, unassuming, and loyal

Saw the good in everyone

A very smartly dressed gentleman

Considerate, respectful, thoughtful, and generous

Compassionate kind and strong

Hardworking and dedicated

Fun loving, with a zest for life, quick witted with a fantastic sense of humour

Eyes with mischievous glint

Always a stunning smile which could light up the room.

 

Doug’s quirky imperfections included

His practice of reading aloud the whole of a newspaper newspaper

Arguing with the sat nav in the car.

The number of mobile phones he got through

 

The very large attendance at the funeral was testimony to the wonderful stunning things which were presented. To his family – especially his widow Dot – condolences from everyone.

Doug’s funeral will take place on  Tuesday 31st January at 10.45am at Crewe Crematorium Chapel.

Donations in memory of Doug will be gratefully received on behalf of The Air Ambulance.

For further information please call us on 01270 584447.