MCQUEEN, Douglas George

July 13, 1958 — June 23, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Douglas McQueen on June 23, 2026, in Kelowna, British Columbia, at the age of 67.

Born on July 13, 1958, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Doug lived a life defined by craftsmanship, determination, and adventure. To his family and friends, he was a beloved husband, father, and loyal friend whose quiet strength and generous heart will be remembered always.

Doug was a perfectionist in every sense of the word. Boat building was more than his career; it was his calling. Following in his father’s footsteps, he carried on the family tradition before establishing McQueen Boat Works and McQueen Yachts, where he proudly served as owner and operator for 25 years. Under his leadership, the company became known for building exceptional custom yachts ranging from 65 to 120 feet. He often managed the construction of three yachts at once, dedicating long days to ensuring every detail met his exacting standards before each vessel was launched. His reputation for quality, precision, and uncompromising workmanship earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Every yacht that left his care reflected the pride he took in his craft.

Doug possessed an incredible mechanical mind and seemed capable of fixing anything placed before him. He had an exceptional gift for mathematics, an astonishing memory, and an uncanny ability to recall highway routes and numbers with remarkable accuracy. Though he carried himself with confidence, those who knew him best discovered beneath that confident exterior was a gentle soul: a true teddy bear with a kind and caring heart.

Away from work, Doug embraced life’s adventures. He loved to travel, creating treasured memories exploring the Amazon River in Brazil, journeying through Peru to the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu, enjoying numerous Caribbean cruises, and making unforgettable trips to Alaska. One of his favourite adventures was driving to Skagway in 2001, and just last May, he and Rosemarie returned to Alaska on another cruise, captivated once again by its extraordinary beauty. Family trips included an Orlando, Florida, adventure in 1994 to go meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Disney World; there was building sandcastles and eating coconut-flavored ice cream in Kauai in 1999; and in 2004, we all watched him make a huge splash in the Riviera Maya’s water holes. In 1994, Doug and Rosemarie bought a mobile home in Birch Bay, Washington. They made many lovely memories there, enjoying tide walks with the kids, visits to the farmers’ market and Hovander Farm, and fun shopping at Haggen and Target in Bellingham. Each trip with the family built memories and bonds that will not fade.

While living in Richmond, BC, Doug and Rosemarie had a sweet little brown house. In 2005, they purchased a condominium in Peachland, a place that held special meaning for them both, as they had each spent cherished childhood days enjoying the shores of Okanagan Lake. Summers there became some of their happiest times, spent boating on the lake almost every day – moments they anticipated all year long and treasured together.

Doug also loved the outdoors. He was an avid skier, and his number one passion was downhill mountain biking.

Doug leaves behind his loving wife of 45 years, Rosemarie; his daughter, Kristie, and her partner, Bruce; sister Bonnie; friends, colleagues, and all who were fortunate enough to know him, including the beloved rescue tabby cat, Archie, who loved Doug and is clearly missing him.

Doug will be deeply missed. He will be remembered as a man whose hands built beautiful things, whose work will endure for generations, and whose love, strength, and quiet kindness leave an enduring legacy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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