In Memoriam

Douglas Nathan Hurlbut passed away quietly at St Michaels Hospital on Jan. 23, 2011, after a very brief encounter with cancer.

The Ontario Pond of the Honorable Order of the Blue Goose, a fraternal organization composed of members of the property and casualty industry, recognized the passing of Hurlbut. “It is with great sorrow that the Pond learned Gander Doug Hurlbut took his Long Last Flight” the Ontario Pond posted on its Web site.

During his 13 years with the Flock, Doug was a loyal Gander and rarely missed participating in an event.” A celebration of Doug’s life was held in Toronto on Jan. 30.

Hurlbut, 64, an avid sports enthusiast, was enjoying retirement after many years of serving as a claims manager with Aviva Canada. Hurlbut began his career with The Cooperators in 1969. Prior to his time at Aviva, he was a claims manager with the Canadian General Insurance Company.

“A member of the Quarter Century Club and past President of the Canadian Insurance Claims Managers Association (CICMA), he enjoyed many friends in the industry and will be sadly missed,” the Pond wrote.

Hurlbut was the husband of Susan Spierling and brother to Susan Hurlbut-Luna and Randy Luna.

Hurlbut is praised for his  positive outlook and true affection towards people.

In June 2005, shortly after Hurlbut’s retirement, industry colleagues and friends held a retirement celebration titled ‘Dougstock.’ Hundreds of industry revellers attended the party at Toronto’s Pilot Tavern, an establishment Hurlbut says he supported over the years. The evening’s entertainment featured performances by various bands and artists, including Hurlbut himself. At the event, retirement well-wishers referred to Hurlbut as a “relationship crusader” and the “kind of guy you want to live next door to.”

A ‘Dougstock II’ event was held the following year, in June 2006. Proceeds from that event  went to WICC (Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade). The Honorable Order of the Blue Goose reports that a ‘Dougstock III’ event will be held this spring.