Claire Doolittle

DOOLITTLE, Claire Winston McArthur - Age 83, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Honolulu, Hawaii, following complications from a heart attack.

Born on April 26, 1942, in Aurora, Ontario, Claire was the youngest of seven children born to Clarence and Iona Doolittle. Growing up in Aurora alongside his siblings Loring, Jolyne, Garfield, Clayton, Bernice, and Audrey shaped his lifelong values of respect, hard work, and community. He was predeceased by his parents and all his siblings.

Claire attended Aurora High School before earning a degree in Industrial Arts and a teaching certificate from the University of Toronto. Farming was always close to his heart, and he farmed in Arthur Township for 20 years, but teaching became his life’s calling. He began his teaching career at Oakville High School from 1964 to 1966, and in January 1967 joined Mount Forest District High School, where he taught Industrial Arts until his retirement in 1998. He later spent ten years as a Health and Safety Instructor for co-op students, continuing his commitment to preparing young people for the working world.

Claire poured everything he had into his students and the school. A dedicated coach and mentor, he led the Mount Forest District High School football team to championship victories in 1968 and 1970, and also coached basketball. Beyond the school, he coached many minor hockey teams, leaving a lasting impact on countless young athletes. In his early years in Mount Forest, he was an active member of the Kinsmen and K-40, always ready to contribute where help was needed.

Known for his big personality, love of conversation, and fondness for storytelling — even if you had heard the story before — Claire believed deeply in showing up prepared and giving your best effort. One of his favourite reminders was, “If you’re not 15 minutes early, you’re late”. He had little tolerance for laziness or lack of effort, but endless patience and respect for anyone willing to work hard. He was always there to lend a hand or help with whatever needed doing.

Above all else, Claire loved his family, farming, sports, and honest hard work. He is survived by his beloved wife Eileen, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage; his children Aaron Doolittle, Robin Doolittle and Victoria Freeman; daughter-in-law Manami Doolittle, and his cherished grandchildren Isla and Charlie. His influence extended far beyond his family, touching generations of students, athletes, colleagues, and friends throughout the Mount Forest community.

Claire lived by the belief that everyone deserves respect and support if they are willing to work for it. He taught those around him to work hard and trust that things will work out. His family is deeply grateful for everything he taught them — lessons that will continue to guide them every day.

A celebration of Claire’s life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., with family remembrances being shared at 2:00 p.m. at the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex Community Hall, 850 Princess Street, Mount Forest. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Claire’s memory may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation or Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com