Video Club member Doug Sainsbury passed on August 12, 2023 after a prolonged illness forced him to give up his service to the club writing news articles as our Globe Liaison, a job he had taken on in 2021. We learned of his passing in mid-November through an online obituary posted by O’Connor Mortuary (below). Doug also wrote the script for the Video Club’s third Short Dramatic Film, “The Hole in One” (2022), and served at its Golf Advisor throughout production.

After retiring from the Federal Reserve Bank, Doug moved from Illinois to California and began an active period of writing, publishing four sci-fi/mystery novels, including “Trillions and Trillions,” “Intrusion,” and “Phantasm.” As a Laguna Woods Village resident, he was active in the Video Club, the Publishing Club, and a screenwriting group conducted by Gila Zalon, where he worked on converting his novels into screenplays.

Above, Doug on set with lead actors in “The Hole in One,” Jules Zalon (left) and Arti Rosenstein (right) and the film’s Dramatic Advisor, the late Sheila Bialka.

PubClub President Nancy Brown said of Doug, “Although I didn’t know him well, we had many interactions through the PubClub and (I) knew him to be a wonderful writer, a kind and gentle soul with a volunteer’s heart and spirit.” Video Club Acting Publicity Director Lucy Parker, who directed “The Hole in One,” said, “Doug was my mainstay on the film, helping us get things right as we told his story about friendship and golf. In that project and in our publicity efforts, Doug was always there, always helpful — a wonderful person to work with.”

“The Hole in One” may be viewed on the Video Club’s YouTube channel. The channel’s “Short Dramatic Films” playlist also includes two trailers for “The Hole in One.” Another post on this website tells about Doug’s script being chosen for production.

Below, Doug played an active role in the production of the film he wrote, “The Hole in One.” (Click on photos to enlarge.)

Douglas Farnham Sainsbury

August 31, 1943 – August 12, 2023

Obituary

(From oconnormortuary.com/obituaries)
Douglas Farnham Sainsbury, a distinguished Vietnam Army veteran, passed away on August 12, 2023, at the age of 79. Born on August 31, 1943, Douglas lived a life of service and creativity that touched the lives of many.

After bravely serving his country in the Vietnam War, Douglas transitioned into civilian life. He dedicated several years of his career to the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, where his commitment and expertise left a lasting impact. In 2012, he embarked on a new chapter, moving from Illinois to California to embrace the warmth and beauty of the West Coast.

Retirement brought forth a surge of creativity in Douglas. A talented and passionate writer, he authored four novels during this period, each a testament to his imagination and storytelling prowess. Through his writing, he continued to captivate readers and share his unique perspectives on life.

Douglas Farnham Sainsbury will be remembered not only for his military service and professional contributions, but also for his creative spirit and dedication to his craft. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and artistic expression that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

He is survived by his son, Bryce Sainsbury and his family of Laguna Niguel, CA. His sister, Linda Fugit of Tampa, FL. His sister Dayle Lively of Winnetka, IL. His sister Lissa Goodpasture of Batavia, IL.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on November 9th, 2023 at 11:00am at The Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude in his honor.

Rest in peace, Douglas Farnham Sainsbury. Your memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing you.