Dr. Duncan Wilfrid Sinclair of Aylmer, peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at the age of 87.
Dr. Sinclair was married to Margaret (Scandrett) Sinclair for 63 cherished years and was the devoted father of Kathy Sinclair of Ladner, B.C., Jane Knauer (Jeff) of Ladner, B.C., and Duncan Sinclair (Dana) of Aylmer. He was an adored grandfather to Ben and Meghan and lovingly known as "Bapa" to Coll. Dear brother to Mary Stickel (late Charles) and Don Sinclair (Betty). Predeceased by his son David (1970) and brother-in-law Bruce Scandrett (late Sal).
Born in St. Thomas, Ont., on May 25, 1936, he was the son of Dr. Charles and Mary (Brown) Sinclair. Duncan pursued his education at the University of Western Ontario, where he graduated with a Doctorate of Medicine in 1963. He briefly practised medicine in Terrace, B.C., before taking over his father's practice in Aylmer in 1965.
Dunc's passions in life extended to his family, his faith, his medical profession, his patients, his community, his friends and his dedication to environmental causes. Throughout his remarkable and ambitious career, he played a pivotal role in establishing the East Elgin Family Health Team, providing care to over 4,000 patients. In 2019, after 54 years of dedicated service, Dr. Sinclair retired.
Dunc was a devoted husband and father, a pillar of strength and unwavering support for his family. As a husband, he was not just a partner but a true companion, always there to share in life's joys and challenges.
As a father, Dunc embraced the role with a deep and abiding love. His unwavering presence was a constant source of comfort and guidance, and he instilled in his children the values of kindness, hard work, and resilience. He was always eager to spend time with his family and friends. Anyone who spoke with Dunc would see his face light up when talking about his family or the adventures they were returning from and already planning the next.
Dunc was known for his big heart and commitment to serving others. He was a founding member of the Aylmer Area Community Foundation and the Order of Good Cheer. He served as a member and trustee for the Aylmer Baptist Church and was actively involved in conservation efforts, including his membership in Ducks Unlimited, the Historic Turkey Point Company and his role as a director of Wetlands Bahamas.
He had a deep love for the great outdoors, whether it was fishing for bass, hunting or simply enjoying weekends at the lake with his beloved Marg. In 1974, he and Herb Kebbel initiated Ducks Unlimited fundraising banquets, raising more than $1.8 million for conservation over the years. Dunc had a deep connection to Long Point Bay and would spend endless hours out on the water. His commitment to conservation earned him numerous awards, including the dedication of the Sinclair Wetlands in Calton and the Sinclair-Campbell-Wetland Habitat in Long Point. He was also a past president of Ducks Unlimited Canada.
Dunc possessed charisma and a heart of gold, endearing himself to everyone he encountered. He tirelessly advocated for causes close to his heart, positively impacting countless members of his community and beyond. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, as a role model and a source of cherished memories. While his physical presence may be gone, his spirit and the lessons he imparted will remain forever in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. Dunc will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
Because of Dunc’s heart for his community, please consider a donation to the Aylmer Area Community Foundation, Aylmer Baptist Church or the Hospice of Elgin. Dunc touched many lives. Share memories and condolences on the Kebbel Funeral Home website.