Born on June 24, 1930, Douglas attended the University of Toronto, School of Architecture, Class of 1956. He was the Athletic 'A' Captain of the soccer team from 1954 to 1956 for the School of Architecture. Douglas spent his early career moving around North America, returning to Toronto 1961 and commenced architectural practice in Richmond Hill at 70 Yonge Street South in 1963. Currently, he is President of Allen & Sherriff Architects Inc. at 10,350 Yonge Street., Richmond Hill. Douglas was married in 1953 to Frances Alice Taylor. They now have two children, Kelli Ann Crocker and Sean Taylor Allen, as well as four grandchildren.

Flat Water Canoe Racing:

Canadian Champion, ½ Mile War Canoe -1952;

Canadian Champion, Senior Single Blade Four Boat - 1952;

Canadian Champion, Junior Single Blade Singles - 1953 ;

Canadian Champion, One Mile War Canoe - 1953; and

a founder and lifetime member of the Richmond Hill Canoe Club (flat water racing) - initial Vice Commodore – 1990.

Squash:

Ontario Provincial Master's Champion - 1986, 1993, 1997;

Canadian Master’s Champion - 2001;

United States Master's Champion - 1996;

International Master's Games - Bronze Medal - 1985; and 

Founder and Initial President of Richmond Hill Racquet Club (squash) - 1969, 1970 and 1971.