May 6, 1961 – September 20, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Douglas Alan Waite, age 65 of East Selkirk, Manitoba. In the years following a life altering subarachnoid hemorrhage, he journeyed down a long and gentle path of progressive neurological decline.

He leaves behind to lovingly cherish his memory his beloved wife Stephanie; stepsons Jordan, Nathan; stepdaughter Serina; eldest brother Jim, twin brother Pete; nieces Kelly (Alan), Lisa and Tasha; many cousins, extended family and close friends who will miss him dearly. Doug was predeceased by his parents James and Margaret; his brother Robert (Bob).

Doug grew up in the Pulberry area of St. Vital. He attended Hastings Elementary and Junior High schools and graduated from Dakota Collegiate in 1979. He was enrolled at the University of Manitoba, first in the faculty of Environmental Studies and then transferred to Arts.

Music became an integral part of his life. At the age of 13, Doug began playing the guitar, along with his twin brother Pete. His favorite bands and early influences were Kiss, Rush, BTO, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath. He began playing bass guitar in the early 1980’s, first with his band Pegasus, and in 1985 began working full-time in the band Circuit. Over the years, he played with the bands White Room, Masque, Jane Doe, Mother Groove (Famous Jane, Dreams & Rumours) and Xstatic. His love of music, and the memories made along the way remained a lasting part of his life. Upon retiring as a full-time musician, he began employment with Gardewine where he made many respected, meaningful friendships with co-workers and staff.

In 2004, the stars aligned when Doug met Stephanie, the love of his life. They exchanged vows in 2008, marking the start of a beautiful new chapter filled with shared adventures. Married for 18 wonderful years, their greatest adventures were embraced with those they loved most. They found immense happiness in fun times with the kids and lively celebrations with family and friends, while always making time for date nights enjoying favorite music. Happiest days were rounded out by favorite mall shopping trips, adoring his pets, leisurely scenic drives and escapes to Doug’s treasured Muskoka cottage at Muldrew Lake. There he enjoyed swimming, canoeing, boating or just having a quiet drink on the deck and spending the nights stargazing. As a loving husband and devoted stepfather, he found his greatest joy in the quiet sanctuary of his home life.

Beyond his gifts as a musician, Doug possessed a charming character, a witty mind, and an infectious sense of humor that could light up any room. He was a man of many passions, fascinated by the mysteries of astronomy, an avid movie critic, devoted reader of books and a true lover of all animals, especially his own beloved pets. A good movie and a great song were more than just entertainment; they were sources of inspiration that defined the deeper human experience. Above all, Doug will be remembered for his profoundly positive, reassuring nature – a steady, grounding presence who brought comfort and warmth to everyone he loved.

Although his complex health journey over the last eight years was marked by obstacles and complications, Doug met every daily boundary with humble resilience and grace.

In keeping with Doug’s wishes, cremation has taken place. No formal services will be held at this time. We encourage friends and family to reach out to one another to share their memories and celebrate Doug’s life privately. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a Musicians/Music Education Organization or a Wildlife/Pet Animal Rescue Organization of your choice.

“To live in the hearts we leave behind is to live forever.”

~ Carl Sagan ~

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Doug’s memorial page using the comment field below.