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Versatiles say farewell to a true entertainer

Doug Armstrong loved to perform and to make people laugh – qualities that served him well, recalls Susie Francis Hall.
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Few could match Doug Armstrong’s joy of entertaining others

The Versatiles, Cloverdale’s troupe of golden aged performers, are mourning the loss of one of their most senior members.

Doug Armstrong, who passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital on Nov. 16 at the age of 94, was with the Versatiles for 12 years.

“He was our friend and confidante,” says founder and artistic director.

“He never let anyone get away with being afraid, and he was smart, he knew the answer to too many questions. When he gave a hug, you knew you had been hugged by an expert,” says Francis, who says few could match Armstrong’s joy of entertaining others.

He loved to make people laugh, and could play the piano, sitting down to play old sing-along songs.

“Doug had a kind heart and always told you the truth, even when it hurt,” she said. “The result of this led to a trust and love that the Versatile entertainers will surely miss in the days, months and years to come. He will always be in our hearts.”

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