Dougal (Doug) Fletcher was born and raised in Argyle, Manitoba. He graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Manitoba, with a BSA in 1932 and a Masters in Economics in 1935. Doug married Iris Campbell in 1937 and together they raised three daughters: Sheila, Marilynn and Lesley.

From 1937-45, Doug worked for the Dominion Livestock Branch at the Union Stockyards in Winnipeg. In 1945, he joined the Manitoba Department of Agriculture as the Agricultural Representative for the Shoal Lake district. In 1953, Doug was transferred to the Carman district where he served for eighteen years until his retirement in 1971.

Doug was well known and highly respected for his diplomacy, integrity and respect for other people. He was known for his pleasant personality and willingness to help anyone in need. Doug was also highly regarded for his knowledge of farm management and his technical expertise in soils and crop production. He was an early promoter of soil testing and the establishment of a soil testing laboratory. He assisted with the formation of the Carman and District Farm Business Association as well as the Manitoba Corn Growers Association, of which he acted as secretary even after retirement. Doug’s work within the 4-H program is legendary; he spent countless evenings and weekends assisting and encouraging both leaders and members with their activities and projects.

Doug’s office was known as a friendly, welcoming and efficient place to do business. He was dedicated to the families in his district and made every effort to introduce new ideas and opportunities to their farming operations. Doug’s office was considered by many as the best source of independent and reliable information for farmers.

Doug was a charter member of the Manitoba Institute of Agrologists and was named a Life Member in 1972.

Following his retirement from Manitoba Agriculture, Doug was elected to the Carman Town Council in 1973 where he served as Mayor from 1974 to 1983. He was also active in the Pembina Valley Development Association and the Lower Red River Valley Water Commission. Doug was a driving force in the development of the Boyne River Diversion project which was built to protect Carman from spring flooding. He is a past president of the Manitoba Association of Urban Municipalities. Over the years, Doug served as Chairman of the Shoal Lake School Board, Member of the Chamber of Commerce and a Director of the Carman Hospital Board. For his leadership and volunteerism Doug was chosen Carman’s Citizen of the Year in 1987.

Doug Fletcher was a true professional and trusted public servant.