Br Doug Walsh - a Marist man of passion, action, practical help, deep faith, and care.
Br Peter (Doug) Walsh fms, OA
To many of us, Br Peter Walsh was known as Doug or Dougie. To all he was known as a Marist man of passion, action, practical help, deep faith, care of the ones otherwise left behind, an educator and dependable friend.
It was not remarkable that Doug died peacefully on January 1st 2026, the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – the God bearer. While not always evident in his words, Doug had an enduring, unpretentious relationship with Mary on whom he modelled much of his life. One who humbly got on with bringing the empowering, comforting, challenging and caring touch of God to many. As a God-bearer himself, Doug made a difference to the lives and circumstances of many otherwise overlooked and possibly discarded.
Those of us who had the privilege of living closely with Doug knew that in his room he had icons, statues and works of art reminding him daily of the significance of Mary in his life and in the life of our world. His devotion was defined by practicality, quiet help, gentle presence and passionate articulation after reflection and thought. His prayer was mostly private and sustaining. Conversations with our Good Mother no doubt, and little wonder she welcomed him home on her special day!
Also looking over him in his room, as though affirming, encouraging and inspiring him was a large photo of Dorothy Day. Such similarities of passion, belief, resilience, vision, dare and hopefulness!
For the last ten years of his ministry, Doug lived with the Exodus Community in Heidelberg West, an area of significant disadvantage and personal struggle for many. Of course, Doug embraced this as an opportunity, supporting and assisting people to see challenges in life as a way to make a difference. He companioned people, sought ways to alleviate discomfort, alienation and loneliness. His thoughtful presence and obvious comfort in being with some who might otherwise be disregarded, enabled many to embrace their circumstances. Doug appreciated the opportunity to occasionally lead the preparation of Sunday Mass and found his faith enriched by sharing insights, celebrating together and affirming fellow faith journeyers.
Doug’s presence brought comfort and reassurance to many.
During the final days of Doug’s life many had the opportunity to visit and be with him. There was an outpouring of kindness, love, humour, stories, remembrances and opportunities for authentic farewell and honest displays of affection. It was a privilege for those closest to Doug, family and confreres, to see and hear such affection and care shown to him. A small man of big dreams and massive achievements! He was lovingly comforted till his final breath.
Doug is survived in the Walsh family by his twin sister Maureen, herself a woman of conviction, deep faith and passion for life. Nieces and nephews love him as do his many Marist companions and those whose lives have been profoundly touched by his faithful God bearing life.
Br Harry Prout
Coordinator, Olympic Village Exodus Community
