By Gazette Staff
January 3rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Obituary
With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the life of Douglas Roy Leggat. Doug passed away peacefully at home in Burlington, Ontario, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, surrounded by family. Doug leaves behind an enduring legacy of family, community and entrepreneurship.
Born and raised in Hamilton, Doug was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Florence Leggat, and his two older brothers, Bob and Don. He is survived by the love of his life and sparring partner, Maryella (Foran). They met while attending TMU (Ryerson) and were married for nearly 70 years, building a partnership grounded in love, respect, humour, and shared purpose.
Together, their greatest joy was raising their children and watching their family grow: Sue (Bill) Kidd, Brian (Michelle Capriotti), and Leighan (Bob) Basadur; his grandchildren Tanner, Charlie (Larisa Yurkiw), and Hugh Kidd; Julien (Bianca Jivan), Portia, Mason, and Ella Leggat; and Molly and Dougie Basadur. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Nora, Lydia, and Monty Kidd, and Lawrence Leggat.
Doug’s professional life was defined by leadership, integrity, and vision. He was a true entrepreneur and mentor to many. He started his automotive career, in Dundas, Ontario. Over the years, he grew the car business by acquiring property and opening dealerships under the Leggat banner. He was passionate about the automotive industry and believed that business should serve people and strengthen communities. He led by example; he was fair, honest, and had an unwavering sense of responsibility.
As Chair of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), Doug provided steady leadership. He was an integral part in establishing the Benefits 360 program, which brought security and peace of mind to families while traveling. He played a key role in the creation of the NADAP agreement, bringing dealers and manufacturers together to create a fair and enduring framework that remains in place today. His collaborative, principled approach earned him lasting respect throughout the industry.
Doug was philanthropic and had a profound impact on his community. He served as the inaugural Chair of The Burlington Foundation and led the Joseph Brant Capital Campaign. He was a past President of the Hamilton Golf and Country Club, and an active member of numerous boards and committees. Among the causes he most enjoyed supporting were the Nelson Youth Centre, CityKidz Hamilton, and Ridley College. He was guided by his deep belief in the importance of opportunity and education.
Doug was a keen competitor and enthusiastic athlete. He excelled in football and hockey at Ridley College and Ryerson. His love of sport extended to golf, tennis, and epic water volleyball competitions. Nothing brought him more joy than spirited family board games, spoons and card games.
Doug would tell you that his greatest joy was his family, family first – always. He treasured summers on Muskoka’s Penman Island, where no one was too old for a boat ride with Doug at the helm, especially if the destination was Port Sandfield for ice cream.
Generous, warm, and deeply dedicated, he gave his very best to those he loved.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Raymund Samera and Gerald Lugtu for their devoted and compassionate care of Doug, as well as all involved at Joseph Brant Hospital and PSW’s.
Visitation at SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stop light north of QEW), BURLINGTON (905-632-3333), on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 3 – 5 p.m. and 7 – 9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at Port Nelson United Church (3132 South Dr, Burlington) on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the Leggat family kindly requests that those wishing to honour Doug consider donating to the Doug Leggat ‘54 Bursary at Ridley College or the Burlington Community Foundation.
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