David A. Douglass
December 9, 1948 – July 2, 2021
A committal service with full military honors will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd., Augusta, MI 49012, on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at 12:00 PM (those planning to attend should arrive by 11:45 AM and meet at the Funeral Assembly Area). Everyone is welcome to attend a gathering immediately following the service at the Cricket Club, 35 Michigan Ave. West, Battle Creek, MI 49017. Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek VA Medical Center-Community and Volunteer Services, 5500 Armstrong Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49037 or www.battlecreek.va.gov/giving.
Obituary
Age 72, passed away on Friday, July 2, 2021. David was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on December 9, 1948, the son of the late Millard and Dorothy (Shores) Douglass. He was a graduate of Vicksburg High School, class of 1967. After high school, David enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country for 23 years. He retired in 1990, having obtained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He was also a member of the Navy’s elite SEAL team, earned two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, and the Distinguished Service Cross. After the Navy, David spent 19 years working in maintenance. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, bowling and baseball. David also loved to breed Golden Retrievers. One November 17, 1995, he married the former Beth E. Decker, who survives. David is also survived by two sons, David S. and Chris (Kristen Marie) Douglass; stepchildren, David (Villo) Zomer, Laura (John) Amatulli, Donald (Laura) Forester and Elizabeth (John) Coughlin; three granddaughters, Madison Christine, Kylar Marie and Kaylee Rae Douglass; numerous step-grandchildren; brothers, Russ, James (Karen) and Craig (Julie) Douglass; aunt, Lona Hineline; close niece, Mindy (Rusty) Sellman; as well as numerous other nieces and nephews who added special memories to his life and completed his family. Besides his parents, David was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela Crim.
A salute to my brother! He was a man that lived life on his terms. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t do. He was a tough man who would melt the minute his dogs would come around. I have so many memories of my brother, almost all of them good. He wasn’t a saint, but he was good at heart. I miss him severely already. He was always just a drive away or a phone call. His last year’s were brutal and not deserved. Rest in peace my brother. Jim
Our condolences to Beth and his family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Was a great friend. He will be missed.
Dave had a smile that lit up his whole face, and he gave the best hugs. I loved getting to know him these past years. He will be very missed.