ACKLAND, Douglas John Lee - It is with great sadness that our family has suffered the loss of a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. On Monday, September 30th, 2013 in his 77th year, Doug lost his very short but valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Beloved husband of Mable (Pawley), father of James (Luda), Debra Robillard (Craig), Darrel (Terri), Sandra Huston (Jeff). Grandfather of Lauren, Mark and Megan Ackland; Brock, Adam and Blake Robillard; Kyle (Urbshott), Quinton and Madeline Huston; Spook and Boots. Brothers Ted (Patti) and Brad (Kae). Predeceased by his parents Erwin and Loretta Ackland, brother Bert and sister Dorothy Slater. From his early days living in Caledonia to living in the small towns of Mt. Brydges, Komoka and Birr then moving back into London, he always stayed true to his values. Doug had the spirit of a cowboy from the heels of his polished, worn cowboy boots to the tips of his rugged hard working hands. Those that truly knew Doug know that he had true grit and marshmallow insides. He knew what was important in life - his family, his friends and how you treat those around you. He had the gift of gab whether it be with a neighbor or just someone passing by and would always lend a helping hand expecting nothing in return. He loved the simple things - early morning Tim Horton's coffee with his pals, sitting in the garage watching a storm blow by or puttering around outside while listening to country music. If he wasn't reading the worn pages of a cowboy pocketbook or peering tirelessly over the thousands of pieces of a jig saw puzzle he would simply be enjoying the Sunday afternoon Nascar races on the tv or winning 50 cents from a friendly game of cribbage. His teasing, quick wit and "old school" sayings will be missed by many . . . and many who remember him fondly calling them "Turkey". We'll never forget the stories you told, the lessons you taught us and the things you stood for and will honor you every day in the way we live our lives . . . we love you and will miss you. At Doug's (affectionately known as "Turkey") request, there will not be a formal funeral service. Cremation has taken place. A celebration, to be announced at a later date, will be held in his honor. Special thanks to the nursing staff of the palliative care and GI Unit at University Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Alzheimer Society in remembrance of Doug would be greatly appreciated.