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Doug Arbuthnot
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DOUGLAS MATTHEW ARBUTHNOT
March 4, 1952 – May 20, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dad, the man, the myth, the legend, Douglas Matthew Arbuthnot, father, grandfather, and friend to many, on May 20, 2024, at the age of 72.
Doug was born on March 4, 1952, at the Victoria General Hospital. He grew up in Fort Garry for most of his life until moving to St Vital.
Our dad passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. In true Doug fashion he was able to beat the odds with the time he was given. He managed to still find ways to customize his medical devices to fit his active life.
He is predeceased by his parents, Graham and Therese Arbuthnot; wife, Susan Bultz; and brother, John Arbuthnot.
Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are his sons, Darcy (Brittany) and Darrin (Leah); daughter, Shari Normand (David); grandchildren, Dorian, Kollyns, Kamryn, Reese and Rylee; mother to his children Maria; and dear friend Linda.
There was nothing that our dad Doug enjoyed more than sharing tales of his many adventures…
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 p.m. on May 28, 2024, at 603 Wellington Crescent in Winnipeg (Unitarian Church).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Doug’s memory to Never Alone Foundation.
Doug’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.
ETHICAL DEATH CARE
Cremation & Life Celebrations
530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg
204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com
Memories, Stories and Condolences
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52 Comments
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Tamara Thomson
June 4, 2024 at 6:53 PM
Darcy, Britt, Dorian and family,
I am so so sorry for your loss. Take care of each other and enjoy every memory as they come up. ❤️
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Lori & Roberta (The Girls)
June 1, 2024 at 2:41 PM
So sorry to hear of Dougie's passing. We will miss his smile, his stories and his thoughtfulness.
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Robert Crawford
May 28, 2024 at 4:26 PM
the only thing better than heairing. one of his stories was being part of his story.
,
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Sheila, Dan, and family
May 28, 2024 at 12:36 PM
Our sincere condolences to each of you.
Find strength and comfort from one another during this difficult time. As the days ahead unfold, acceptance of your loss shall become easier as you reflect and recall the many cherished moments and memories, the love, the zany antics, and the genuine zest for life with which he lived. He has left you with an eternal gift to carry on. Those we've loved don't truly go away.
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Bob Nieuwkerk
May 28, 2024 at 11:50 AM
My deepest condolences to the Arbuthnot family. Wishing them all peace in this difficult time. Dougy was one of a kind and I will miss him and his many stories. He was always the entertainer and you knew when he was in the room.
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Jack Goodman
May 28, 2024 at 9:41 AM
I was an unwavering customer of Doug's dating back to 1983 through to his "retirement" in the 2000's, always enjoying my interactions with him and quickly growing to regard him as a friend. I appeciated not only his formidable skill as a mechanic, but also his boundless energy, impish sense of humour, and most importantly, his honesty and integrity. Doug was small in stature but was a giant of a man with a one-of-kind persona. He will not be forgotten.
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Brian yendrowich
May 28, 2024 at 9:21 AM
I met Doug at Red River Community College in the early seventies. He was the guy that told the instructors that he wanted to stay in the suspension section of the automotive course and not follow everyone else through the various stages of learnimg, he knew what he wanted.
Doug and I had some kind of history, all good,his drive and energy always amazed me.
Some of the escapades that he,his dad Graham and I got into make me giggle and shake my head.
Doug was so good at his story telling, a tremendous entertainment.
So many things i now realize that I will miss.
do rest in peace
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Tim Diack
May 27, 2024 at 3:32 PM
My Dad always got his cars fixed by Doug Arbuthnot. I think he was over on Corydon and Wilton... I might have that wrong, but when he opened on Chevrier I ended up there frequently. I always needed something fixed on the beaters and Doug was always there to help. He never seemed to get old. A really good guy who left too early.
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The Daley's
May 27, 2024 at 1:32 PM
Sincere condolences to Doug's family. We've known Doug for over 40 years and renmember doug running the kids games at the MSRA events. Don't know who had more fun Doug or the kids.
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Doug Groff
May 27, 2024 at 1:09 PM
Flash back to Vincent Massey... getting beat up on the wrestling mat to "relaxing" in the little green bag "1" which I ended up buying from Dug about 10 years later. He was the only guy I had work on my car from Firestone to goodyear to his shop on Chevrier. He got me into the Pembina when I still had my bantam football jacket on. We lost touch when I ended up moving to Ontario but later on I would get a phone call from doug every New Year's Eve. I feel lucky to have called Dug a friend, I always admired him for his accomplishments, I don't think too much grass grew under his feet. Sending condolences to all his extended family he will be truly missed.
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Terri Perfanick (Wilson)
May 27, 2024 at 12:09 PM
My sincere condolences to all of Doug's Family. I met Doug in the early 70's. I was a student nurse at VGH and Doug of course was my patient. He was a very determined guy even back then, cause everyday that he was my patien he would say "when I get out of here we are going out". Doug had a heart of gold, a mischievous grin, and a laugh that could be heard across the room. May all the wonderful memories of your Dad and Grandpa help you through this sad time. Rest in Peace Doug!
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Tom Beaudry
May 27, 2024 at 11:18 AM
Hugs and Prayers to family. Our little "tendy" always with the smiles and quick wit and laughter.
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Tim, Gwen, Tylar, and Turnar Kist
May 26, 2024 at 5:54 PM
Darcy, Darrin, and Shari,
We are so sorry for your loss. Doug was our mechainc for years, goalie for years of the Friday night legendary skates, and a friend always. And stories that grew over the years. When he was on your team, you knew he would scrap to make every save. When you played against him - shoot high (but he seemed to know it was coming). And he was the best darn leprechaun ever! Much love and support for you now and forever. Our life is better having had Doug in it.
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Holly & Larry Isford
May 26, 2024 at 12:38 PM
Holly and I are both sorry for your loss. Doug was a good freind
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The Hansen’s - David, Gayle Danielle and Adrienne
May 25, 2024 at 10:11 PM
Doug was one of our favorite memories of our family living on Metz St. way back when. And the Arbuthnott family.- To all of you kids, we extend our deepest sympathies and send a hug to each of you. Time has a way of passing very quickly and we are sorry we did not know he was having health struggles. We remember Doug fondly and will always remember his big smile only outshone by his big heart.
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Maria Arbuthnot
May 25, 2024 at 8:30 PM
My condolences and prayers
To our children and grandchildren
Shari (Dave) Rylee & Reese
Darcy (Brittany) Dorian
Darrin ( Leah) Kollyn & Kamryn
you will truly be missed
Rest In peace Doug
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Rob & Deb Vinsky
May 25, 2024 at 8:06 PM
We have lost a giant soul. Very sad day.
There were several ways we knew Doug,,, being part of the Gull Lake family , the Arbuthnot family were my customers and I was theirs in the car world. Most of all it was a pleasure to call Doug a friend. He would come running to lend a helping hand and we would do the same for him. Most of all it was always a pleasure when Doug would regale us with his stories. He was never lacking enthusiasm. We loved him for that. Going to miss all the laughs.
Finding some happiness that Doug and Susie are together again.
Thinking of Darcy and Darren and the entire Arbuthnot family at this sad time.
Your father/grandpa will be dearly missed.
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Larry Kiziak
May 25, 2024 at 7:14 PM
Been able to call Doug a friend for over 50 years. Never a dull moment, and his story telling was second to none. Almost 47 years ago he showed up to my wedding in his Good Year coveralls and a bow tie. Truly a one of a kind,
R.I.P. my friend
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May 25, 2024 at 3:00 PM
Doug was always ready to help one in need. He was our nextdoor neighbor for ten years. We moved there within a month of each other. We both had young families. His boys and ours became close friends and still are today.
Chantal & George
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Jim I.
May 25, 2024 at 2:40 PM
First met Dougie in the mid seventieS during the Van club days. He was Lil Green Bag as I recall. A real force of nature. Above all, I'll remember him as a really good guy.
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Rick Siewert
May 25, 2024 at 11:33 AM
Met Doug in the 90's from some of the Irish guys I worked with. Always had a good story and a laugh to share. Kept in touch with him though the automotive world and met Darcy & Darrin from the same channel. Rest well my friend. My deepest condolences to all of the family.
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Roy and Carol Anne Gabe
May 25, 2024 at 10:32 AM
The DEVIL called CANCER just won but not before Doug fought him tooth and nail. We will always remember his stories, his impish grin and his love for his family and Gull Lake. RIP Doug.
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Barry and Dot Boutet
May 24, 2024 at 9:05 PM
Our Deepest condolences to all the Family! We will miss all Doug's stories! He was a wonderful neighbour, always came running if he thought we needed a hand, without being asked! From shoveling sand to wheel barrel to the beach, to removing a ski rope from our Seadoo! Our Daughter and Granddaughters had just arrived for a few days summer holiday, when during the first try to knee board, the seadoo sucked up the rope! We were just getting ready for the long trip to GimilI , when Doug came runing! it didn't take long, and Doug had the rope out! Their holiday was saved! From all reports Doug's Family Irish Landing was a very big hit at the poker durby last summer, right down to the green beer! Awesome Gull Lake Farewell Doug! First time we met you was at the poker about 25 years ago! So sorry we had to miss the qlast one! Just last fall Doug and Linda brought out Dougs limo to take us to the farewell to summer dance! Sorry we were unable to go! Shine on Doug! Gull Lake will miss you! ❤️ Dot and Barry
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Haller Family
May 24, 2024 at 8:11 PM
Your Dad/Grandpa was a remarkable man and will never be forgotten. We hope that happy memories bring peace and comfort into your lives at this time.
We have been lucky enough to have known Douggy for over 32 years due to ours kids being friends & playing sports together. Whenever we saw Douggy he immediately made you smile , feel happy and then the laughs began. He told the most amazing stories, which we may a heard more than once but loved them just the same.
Your Gull Lake family will miss you Douggy!!
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Betty Lannoo
May 24, 2024 at 5:19 PM
Sincere condolences to all of the Arbuthnot family during this very difficult time & the days , months & years to come. Albert & I met Doug & Susan 30 plus years ago & I remember him where by he looked after the kids games at the annual MSRA weekend Car Show. The kids had a ball & so did Doug. What a guy!! Over the years we have enjoyed his company enjoying his awesome smile, jokes & wild stories. He is an icon of the street rodders. Doug was one of a kind & we have many fond memories of our times with him. You are now re-united with the love of your life Susie. Rest in peace my friend & thanks for the memories
Betty & Albert Lannoo
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Keith Penner
May 24, 2024 at 1:40 PM
Very sad day! Known Douggie for 30 years and never got tired of hearing all his stories which Suzzy confirmed were actually true! Once he called you a friend he was always there and would go beyond for you. A TRUE friend and great person. Love you and miss you buddy!!
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Don Mclean
May 24, 2024 at 8:30 AM
Condolences to the family. Thank you Doug for all of your contributions that you made to M.S,R.A, over the years.. You will be sadly missed by all of us.
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McTavish Family.
May 24, 2024 at 6:03 AM
We are heartbroken to hear this news. Doug was always such a great friend to our family and espeially my Dad. Many good times had at the Pemby on St. Paddy's day where Doug loved to tell eveyone he had his Santa undies on under his leprechaun outfit. LOL! Always one to help others and make us all laugh. RIP Doug. Deepest condolences Darrin, Darcy, Shari and family.
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Bob McLenaghan
May 23, 2024 at 11:08 PM
I could fill pages with stories of Douggy, many told by him several times, but always worth hearing again. One of my favourites was a Rod run/car show in Dominion City with our young sons ( over a decade and a half ago) and our cars and a bit of mischief entailed. It was a camping bar-b-q event and the Arbuthnot presence was well announced and ended up late night in the bar with new rules made by Douggy. Douggy put off a strong front, but he was really a very gentle caring soul who worshipped family and friends. Funny, generous, unique, and a spark plug in the true meaning of the word. Never a dull moment. I truly loved this man. A friend I will never forget and he will be in my thoughts forever. If it wasn't for Douggy, I would never truly enjoy my love of vintage cars because they ( Son Darrin too) have been the backbone of the hobby, WAY beyond just my cars, but you all know who you are that he shared his knowledge and talent and brotherhood. RIP good buddy. I was never "pure Irish" like him, but enough for a nod and a smile that made me happy.
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Maureen Smith
May 23, 2024 at 9:13 PM
I am so sorry for your loss Darrin and family. Your Dad was such a kind smart man. Always had a smile on his face and always had a story. My old business was down the street from yours , I'm the former owner of Blue Ocean. My heart goes out to you and your family. Hold his memories close to your heart. 🌹
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Kimberly Kammerlock
May 23, 2024 at 8:23 PM
To the Arbuthnot family, it is with great sadness I write these words. My condolences to all his friends & family. I will surely miss seeing him go by and waving to us from his boat during the summer months at Gull Lake. I don't think I can ever recall a time not seeing him putt by in all his glory. His little Irish flag blowing in the wind as he circled the lake. Doug was definitely well known and well loved. He was friendly, out going and loved his by his Gull lake family. He truly loved the lake. That was evident last year when he did it up big with his entire family representing his homeland Ireland in the poker derby. He so deserved first place and was so proud to receive it. Never had I had so much fun during dock wars as when we pulled up to your Irish pub. Darcy, Darren and family you made him proud. I've added a Gull Lake sunset just for you Doug. Hugs to all the family and dear friends. May he rest peacefully.
Kim Kammerlock & family.
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Howard Bloomfield
May 23, 2024 at 7:36 PM
Another Fort Garry Icon has left the building. Once you knew Doug you just had to love him Always happy to see someone from the old hood , he loved swapping stories ( and having a beer of course) He was a great guy who would always have your back Sincere condolences
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Lyle and Kathy Dunsmore
May 23, 2024 at 5:57 PM
My favourite memory of Doug was when our son was young and Doug ran the kids games at the annual car shows for MSRA. I think Doug had as much fun as the kids. MAYBE MORE. Doug will be missed by all who knew him.
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Wally
May 23, 2024 at 4:21 PM
Many good times
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Doug Bodnar
May 23, 2024 at 2:03 PM
Sincere condolences to all of Doug's Family. I met Doug in the early years of MSRA, while I was still living in Wpg. Always the first to offer help on any project, and always the wisecrack jokes, which everyone pretended to dislike, but really enjoyed, because they were so outragous. Even if the joke wasn't funny, Doug made it funny. He will always be remembered as the great guy that he always was. Rest in peace my friend.
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Sally - solange mclaughlin
May 23, 2024 at 1:52 PM
My sincere condolences to the family. What a huge loss i have know Dougie when i was litte shit lol but he was such a riot to be around along with the kids when they were all small. I have some great memeories and my wedding when he allowed us to use a family old car that our grandparents were married in just the same. With very special memories. Rest In Peace my dear friend until we meet again. Sharon Lussier and family give their condolences as well. much love to everyone!
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Jaret
May 23, 2024 at 1:36 PM
Shari, Darcy, and Darrin, very sorry for your families loss. Doug was a big personality and a bigger part of everyones lives that he touched. My Doug memory to share will always be the first day that I met him, it was the first day of grade seven playing a freindly game of football in the front yard with Darcy and Darrin. I was quickly taught a lesson that one does not simply "tackle" Doug and received a quick elbow to the face and a shiner for the first week at a new school. Always a hard ass and always a riot is how I will remember your awesome Dad! Rest in Peace Mr. Arbuthnot.
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Norm
May 23, 2024 at 12:15 PM
Dougie! What an exceptional guy. Yes Doug was tough. He was also a very good mechanic and street rodder. Many great times were spent at street rod events listening to Doug talk right into your face. He will be missed by all that got to know him. He was a stand up guy! My condolences to his kids and family. God speed Doug, we will all miss you!
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Doug Muir
May 23, 2024 at 11:57 AM
Went to VMC with Doug. He was a great guy full of fun and loved his little green bug. Doug was a very good wrestler at school. He was a provincial champ in his weight class. The only problem he had was he thought that he was in the WWE and would body slam his competitors. It was funny to watch even if not allowed but that was Doug bending the rules just a LITTLE bit. Anyway he was a great guy and will be missed for sure from the VMC group. Condolences to the Family
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Lori and Merv.
May 23, 2024 at 10:50 AM
Darcy, Darrin, Sherri and family. Very sorry for your loss. Doug was a character. Many stories and always made things exciting.
He loved my sister Susan unconditionally and for that we are very grateful. Rest easy Doug. I am adding this picture of Doug and Susan.
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William M
May 23, 2024 at 9:56 AM
Strong man competitions were uniquely entertaining with Dougies humor towards the boys.
Condolences to Darcy, Daren and the family.
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Michelle Asselin
May 23, 2024 at 8:05 AM
Doug was one of a kind, he will be missed by many. So many stories, so many laughs and good times, I don't know where to begin. We had the best times at Gull with him and Suzy ❤️
May loving memories of your dad help you find peace. Condolences to Darcy (Brit), Darrin (Leah), Shari and family.
RIP Dougie 💔
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Carrie Locke
May 22, 2024 at 11:00 PM
It was never dull when Doug was around! Rest in peace Dougie. Our deepest condolences for all the family.
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Ray and Carla
May 22, 2024 at 10:55 PM
Some people are destined to enrich the lives of everyone around them.
That was Doug Arbuthno.t. ❤️
So many memories, so many laughs, so much fun! I will never forget his sense of humour, crazy antics, and the deep belly laughs of everyone who was in a room with him.
Just when I thought I'd seen it all, he'd drive by on some DIY motorized raft/pontoon in some crazy outfit and our company would say "who's that guy"?? 😂 What a beautiful human he was. Thank you Doug for your incredible spirit and for holding the title of funnest person to be around at Gull Lake for all of eternity! Darcy, Brit, Darrin, Leah, Shari, David and family, our sincere condolences to you all. I know this is an immeasurable loss for your family and our hearts go out to you.
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Tara de Castro
May 22, 2024 at 10:17 PM
Dearest Dougie, there was never a dull moment in your presence. I will cherish all the fond memories you gave us especially at gull lake. You blessed us with your beautiful car on our wedding day and we will always hold that dear to us. Rest in peace grandpa Doug🙏🏻
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Rex De Castro
May 22, 2024 at 9:44 PM
Many fond memories with Doug, always entertained me, at the expenese of his boys. Always a great time. He was a living legend, rest easy Doguie Fresh.
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Lynn Gillson
May 22, 2024 at 9:28 PM
Darcy, Darren, Shari and Families
Please accept my sincere sympathy on the passing of your Dad. We had known each other a long time and he was always kind, helpful and a great listener. I will always remember him fondly..
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Massoud Horrit (St.Adolphe Pharmacy)
May 22, 2024 at 8:48 PM
Doug was kind hearted , Very smart and always there for others, he even helped my then 11 years old son to finish his school project,
my condolences to his family.
I will miss him
God Bless His Beautiful Soul.
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Catherine Card
May 22, 2024 at 8:22 PM
Thinking of you Darcy, Darrin and your families. Will alea remember how welcoming your dad was when we'd hang out at your cabin and how tolerant he was of our teenage shenanigans. He'll be missed.
Rest easy, Doug.
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Joel
May 22, 2024 at 8:16 PM
Always sending out the vibes!
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Dorian
May 22, 2024 at 4:26 PM
Ill always love you! You always had the best jokes. You are the best grandpa I ever had.
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Brittany
May 22, 2024 at 4:23 PM
Pops,
Words cant express how much you truly meant to me. Thank you for accepting me and loving me as your daughter. I will forever appreciate all that made you DUG and never forget the promise we made one another.
What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.
The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.
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