On Nov. 1, 2025, in Fort Frances, Doug Derendorf passed just as he lived, with his family by his side.
Doug was born in Fort Frances, and spent his early years on the family farm. Among his daily chores he would always enjoy taking care of the animals, even when the rooster and chickens would peck and chase him. This time on the farm would foster a deep love of animals in Doug that would lead to having a loyal rescue pet by his side most of his life.
Doug could stand out in a crowd when he wanted to, dressing spiffy with his black cowboy hat and cowboy boots outwardly showing his love for Westerns. Just like the Cowboys in his favourite movies, Doug loved to spend his time camping, around a bonfire and under the stars. Over the years he got to do just that, traveling the country from coast to coast with his wife Wendy. He enjoyed a good game of darts, and Thursday evening you usually found him at the Legion playing in the local Dart League. He also enjoyed an afternoon visit to the Legion to catch up on the local gossip with the boys. Beyond his family and friends, who he always had time and a helping hand for, one of Doug’s greatest joys was spending time racing with Darren, whether it be door to door on the track or turning wrenches in the garage, Doug would always have a smile on his face.
Doug loved to tell stories about his past, sometimes he would retell one of his favourite stories but he never seemed to run out of new adventures from his life. He would often reminisce about some of the many different jobs he has worked, from carnival worker to seismographer, and long haul trucker to cab driver, he proved that “He could drive anything with wheels.” Throughout his life, Doug quietly built a legacy in the taxi business in Fort Frances, building two successful companies from scratch, and being a part of three generations of taxi drivers in the community.
Doug is predeceased by his parents Ronald and Margaret; sister Joanne; sister-in-law Betty; in-laws Bob, Dot and brother in law Ron. To help continue telling his stories and sharing his wisdom Doug is survived by his wife Wendy; siblings Billy, Jeannie and Donny; children Chrissie, Ron, David, and Darren (Chantal); as well as 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A memorial will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29, on Thursday, November 27, at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please support an animal rescue or charity of your choosing that would make Doug give you an approving nod.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
