ForeverMissed
Large image
His Life

Douglas 'Doug' Thompson

July 18, 2013

Doug was born in Camberwell in London England to parents Ada & Albert on the 14th August 1917. He was one of four children - Doris; Alice; Douglas & Ronald. 

Doug served in the 1st Kings Guards in London before war broke out in 1937. He then travelled with his regiment to South Africa and then onto Egypt were he spent 7 years in North Africa and the Middle East fighting the Axis forces. He was honoured as one of the brave "Rats of Tobruk" after enduring bombardment from land and air by the German army for 8 months straight. 

He returned home to England after the war and courted and married June Nolan in Canterbury in 1948. They went on to have four beloved children: Ann, Christopher (deceased); Julie & Bill. 

In his youth he enjoyed bicycle racing and in Cairo became a high diver & strong swimmer. He immigrated with his family to Australia in 1967 to seek out a better future & the lure of a warmer climate.

On arrival he took on the role as manager of several Angus & Coote Jeweller stores and became one of their key valuers. Over his career Doug developed skills as a highly accomplished watchmaker, jeweller and antique dealer. 

Over the years he has enjoyed a variety of interests and hobbies including fishing, photography, repairing cars and watching cricket. Doug was an unique and amazing charecter with a wicked sense of humour. In Newcastle he was a member of the 'Rats of Tobruk' Association. 

Doug passed away leaving a loving and caring wife, 3 inspiring children, 13 beautiful grandchildren and 13 adorable great-grandchildren.  He led a long and happy life and will be lovingly remembered by those who knew him.