AKITT, Robert Douglas “Doug”

Doug passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the age of 80. Doug was the only child of Bert and Helen Akitt. Growing up in Belwood, he was a fixture at his father’s side, often helping at the family garage and service station. After earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo, Doug worked for Kimberly-Clark in Toronto for several years before returning home to take over the operations of Belwood Motors. Many in the community will fondly remember riding one of the two school buses Doug operated over the years. A dedicated community member, Doug was a longtime member of the Lions Club and coached several Belwood baseball teams. He remained very close to his cousins: Alex and Jane, Emily and Don, and Gloria and Tim. Thanks to the support of his wonderful, caring neighbours—Dan and Ray, Wendy and Fred, Caroline, MaryAnn, and Aaron—Doug was able to live comfortably in his childhood home until his passing. Belwood has lost one of its truly iconic characters. He will be deeply missed. A gathering to celebrate Doug’s life will be held on Sunday, June 28, from 2:00 to 4:00pm at Doug’s home: 17 North Broadway, Belwood. For Doug’s memorial page and to leave online condolences, please visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com.