Archbishop Douglas Walter Hambidge, a revered figure in the Anglican Church of Canada, passed away on March 2, 2026, just days before his 99th birthday. Born in London, England, on March 6, 1927, Archbishop Hambidge dedicated his life to spiritual service, leaving an indelible mark on the dioceses he led and the communities he served.

His early life saw him serve in the armed forces during World War II, an experience that shaped his perspective before he embarked on his ecclesiastical journey. He was educated at London University and served a curacy at St Mark's, Dalston, before his Canadian incumbencies. He was ordained to the priesthood in London, England, on September 29, 1953.

In 1956, Douglas Hambidge emigrated to Canada, beginning his ministry in British Columbia at All Saints Church in Cassiar. He subsequently served parishes in Smithers and St. Martin's in Fort St. John, establishing a strong foundation for his future leadership. His commitment to the church was recognized in 1965 when he became a Canon of St. Andrew's Cathedral in Prince Rupert.

A significant chapter of his career began in May 1969, when he was consecrated as the seventh Bishop of Caledonia, following the death of his predecessor, Bishop William Robert Morrison Munn. As a married man with three children, he introduced a new style of ministry to the episcopate in British Columbia. During his tenure in Caledonia, Archbishop Hambidge pioneered "indigenous ministry," a groundbreaking approach that involved licensing individuals chosen by their communities to serve as priests, influenced by the religious customs of local indigenous peoples.

His leadership continued to expand when he was elected the seventh Bishop of the Diocese of New Westminster in 1980. The following year, in 1981, he assumed the role of the ninth Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of British Columbia and Yukon, serving in both capacities until his retirement in 1993. His 25 years of episcopal service in British Columbia were marked by significant contributions, including his engagement in ecumenical relations, notably an informal conversation with Pope John Paul II during the pontiff's visit to Abbotsford on September 1, 1984.

Upon retiring, Archbishop Hambidge's dedication to global Anglican mission work was immediate and profound; he traveled to Africa the day after his retirement to support emerging dioceses and conduct workshops for new bishops. Through the Anglican Volunteers in Mission program, he accepted a volunteer position as Principal of St. Mark's Theological College in Dar es Salaam, Africa, where he also served as an Assistant Bishop. Upon his return to British Columbia and the Diocese of New Westminster in the early 2000s, he continued to serve as an interim priest in various parishes and remained active as an honorary assistant at All Saints' parish in Ladner, British Columbia, preaching on themes of stewardship, mission, and church vitality across Canadian and American congregations. In 2023, Archbishop Hambidge and his late wife, Denise, moved to Calgary, Alberta, where he resided at the time of his passing.

The Diocese of New Westminster, in an 'In Memoriam' pastoral letter, described Archbishop Hambidge as a kind, compassionate, and humorous teacher, widely appreciated for his wisdom and clear thinking. The diocesan tribute highlighted his significant teaching on stewardship and sharing God's gifts, alongside a strong interest in youth ministry and developing faith. Personal anecdotes from a current bishop further illustrated his profound impact, detailing Archbishop Hambidge's unwavering support and encouragement in their ministry, and a meaningful gift of a pectoral cross related to the 'Stewards in Action' program.

Archbishop Hambidge was predeceased by his beloved wife, Denise. He is survived by his children Caryl, Stephen, and Graham, and leaves behind a cherished legacy as a grandfather and great-grandfather. Marking his 68th ordination anniversary in 2021, his life was a testament to unwavering faith and dedicated service. His legacy of compassionate leadership, innovative ministry, and profound spiritual guidance will be remembered by all whose lives he touched.