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Douglas Luna Obituary

Douglas W. LUNA Born January 7, 1944. Entered Into Rest February 23, 2011 Requiescat In Pace Rosary to be recited Friday, March 4, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at Columbia Funeral Home. Memorial Mass Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Matthew Church, 1240 NE 127th St., Seattle.

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Published by The Seattle Times on Mar. 2, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Luna

Sponsored by The Monzon Family.

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Claudia Young-Hill

February 23, 2022

Cousin Doug, I think about you often and hope you, my mom and Aunt Corine are together.

February 21, 2020

Doug was my second cousin, his mom and mine, Edith Toledo Young were first cousins. Although we did not see him on a frequent basis he was in constant contact with my mom. He invited mom and I to Boston and Martha's Vineyard for a weekend which was somewhat spiritual in nature. He was so kind and generous with his love. He will forever remain in our hearts.

Christina Matchett

April 23, 2012

My friend, Doug, was a special man who had a big heart and always a ready ear for his friends. I did not know he had gone. I will miss hm greatly and hope that Mercedes remembers his great love for her. He loved people and the law.
God bless him.

April 18, 2012

I was sadden to hear that Doug had passed away. He & I worked together 30 years ago at S.T.O.W.W. where I was his administrative assistant. He was the best boss I've ever worked with, but more than that, he was my friend. I will miss him. - Patricia Aubin

March 24, 2012

A year later.....now another distinguished Tlingit Judge has passed on. If there is a heaven, Doug and Delores Cadiente shall surely continue their discussions about justice for all. Lowell Halverson

Claudia Young-Hill

May 21, 2011

Doug was a cousin to me and more like a nephew to my mom. Unfortunately we were not notified of his passing because we live in Georgia and Michigan. Mom's favorite cousin was Doug's mother, Corine who made him promise to keep in touch with her in the event something happened. He kept that promise and gave Mom so much love. We celebrate his life and are truly grateful to have had him for all of these years. Although he will be missed, there is no doubt he has reunited with his Mom and Grandmother.
We celebrate your life.
Edith Young & Claudia Young-Hill

Gregory Frazier

May 13, 2011

Doug was one of the "good guys." I knew him for 30-40 years. Remembering his laugh and smile makes me think his is doing the same on the other side.

James Fossos

April 3, 2011

I was first introduced to Doug many years ago by his Aunt & Uncle Camille Monzon Richards & Jack Richards. Both were very close to Doug. Jack had a special relationship with Doug being that they were both family and fellow Veteran’s/Patriots. Jack both trusted and relied on Doug’s judgment and wisdom during many hard fought political campaigns for both the Chief and Doug’s Aunt Camille. I was extremely impressed at how loyal and proud Doug was of his country, family and friends.

I also found that Doug was as proud of being a Viet Nam Vet and American as I am. Never backing down from a challenge and always respectful of his fellow veterans he was second to none. Doug’s belief in God, Country and family should not go unnoticed. For to sacrifice for some is to sacrifice for many and in Doug Luna’s action packed lifetime that is how he lived. It is my honor and privilege to call Doug a brother and friend. Brother Doug left us much too soon and I believe as a result of war related issues.

He left us with all the dignity and accolades of a true HERO WARRIOR AND ABSOLUTE PATRIOT.

You will be missed my brother. SEMPER FI

James A Fossos, SGT USMC, RVN 1966-67

Linda Medland

March 29, 2011

March 29, 2011.

In the early 70's Doug and I were living in the graduate dorm at U of O at the same time, and we have stayed in touch since. In more recent years Doug would fairly frequently come up to Vancouver, with or without Mercedes, and we would meet to go out for meals, walk through Chinatown, have noodles in Richmond, etc. He would always have some special shopping to do- I suspect most of it was gifts for other people as he was such a generous soul.

Doug had a quirky but understated sense of humor, which made for some entertaining e-mail exchanges. He also enjoyed making outrageous statements for effect. Predictably, this would cause us to "rise to the bait" for Doug's enjoyment. Because he was such a kind person at heart, this was simply fun.

Doug was a justifiably proud father, as Mercedes is as accomplished, principled and charming a daughter as he could wish. He was quietly delighted in her successes and a believer in incentives and rewards. I loved hearing details of the trips he took her on, or receiving a photo of Doug and Mercedes riding an elephant. Although he didn't talk much about the implications of his health problems, in retrospect I can see that he must have wished to maximize his remaining time with Mercedes.

I found the services for Doug very moving, and was struck by the breadth of his involvement in helping others, and the wide range of people representing all the areas of his life. He truly lived by the Christian principles which were so important to him.

I still can't believe Doug is no longer physically here with us, and will miss him, but as we think of him often, he is still here in our hearts.

Pat Elliott Cavanaugh

March 29, 2011

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Doug is his love of life and love of family. They defined him as much as his double passions of the law and helping others. In his role as a tribal judge I believe he felt he was helping people as much as when he went down to the Food Bank or helped out in the community. He lived a life of service to others, and it was evident at his funeral mass and the reception afterwards how many people's lives he touched with his generous spirit and welcoming heart.

However, his favorite role was being a father to Mercedes, and teaching her everything he thought was important (including the importance of good food!), as I think he suspected his life might be cut short. He was immensely proud of what a beautiful person she grew up to be on the inside as well as the outside, with a good head on her shoulders and strength in her being. Sometimes he might have been strict with her, but it was out of love, and I think a sense that he had to pass on his wisdom in the time available to him while he was on earth. Doug was a devout Catholic and was pleased that Mercedes shared that with him. Doug also ensured she got an excellent education at Bishop Blanchet so she would be well prepared for college and life afterwards.

So although we all miss him and wish he were still here among us, he will live on in our hearts and our happy memories of wonderful times we spent together. And even though his life was "short" by today's standards, it was very full and very complete. I think he would tell us he accomplished everything he wanted to and he will see us in heaven when we get there. Rest in peace, dear friend and "brother".

Ulysses Bloomberg Sr.

March 28, 2011

While married to one of the daughters of Mrs. Camille Monzon-Richards in the past, I met Doug numerous times and during all these contacts, he was always cheerful and full of spirit. He was very supportive of my service in the U.S. Army back in the early 80s, when serving in the Armed Forces was not considered as honorable as it is today. What I remember most about Doug was that he always had a smile on his face and no matter what was going on around him, he was always able kept that smile going. This one simple act was often a stabilizing and/or reassuring factor in numerous situations. His mother, the late Mrs. Corinne Monzon-Leach, was an amazing woman, who I have the utmost respect for, did well in raising Doug to become the man that he is, as well as his step father, the late Command Sergeant Major (U.S. Army-Retired) Robert Leach, who was also a great role model for him. It appears that Doug adopted the same high level of leadership and service to one's country and community that Robert held, which is often reinforced with ones past wartime service in a combat zone, which I'm sure it connected both Doug and Robert in ways only combat vets can relate to. Doug is a true American in everyway and his passing is not only a great loss to his immediate family, but to all that knew him. Doug will be missed by all, especially his daughter, Ms. Mercedes Luna. As a Christian, I know for a fact, that after all his hard work and committed to others in this world, he has now at the side of our blessed Father for eternity.

Arnold Troeh

March 26, 2011

We deeply appreciate Doug's wonderful friendship for 25 years. He was an outstanding father, community leader, judge and legal expert for local tribal and Alaska Native Peoples. He also served in Vietnam in USAF intelligence, where he was exposed to Agent Orange which seems to have caused his health problems, sadly shortening his life. He also worked with great compassion in the SIC Food Bank, Gunalsh-cheesh Doug! We love you and will miss you, and pray our Great Lord will bless and comfort Mercedes, Camille, and your wonderful family, representing your Indopino, Tlingit and many proud lineages. Loving Condolences- Your Brother Arnold Neal Troeh, Ph.D., Tsinook Nation, Captain, USAF, RVN, '68-'69

Lowell Halverson

March 25, 2011

Lawyer, judge, father, friend. We worked together to create a tribal court. We debated statutory language and the right way to cook a salmon. Doug was there for me in my times of need, and I was there for him. I miss his wisdom and his smile. He planned his death the way he lived his life, with verve, good food and kindness to all his friends. The video tape at his memorial service made him seem alive again. I wish he was still here. I will think of his courage as long as I live.

Arny Barer

March 25, 2011

Please accept my condolences on Doug's untimely passing. I always enjoyed talking to him and dealing with him over the years. He was a bright and interesting guy and his passing will leave a void in the community.

Kathy Morris

March 7, 2011

It has been many years since I worked with Doug at NICS in the early 90s. But his memory as a judge and a truly good person is fresh in my mind. I remember when Mercedes was born...I even babysat on occasion! I am honored to have known him.

Becky and Tom Clark

March 6, 2011

I'm sorry we did not know about Doug's death until this evening. Our heartfelt condolences to his family. A Sitka Cousin -

Carl & Linda Christenson

March 4, 2011

I didn't know Doug very long. I meet Doug at the NW Harvest in Kent on Mondays to pick up supplies for the Ballard Food Bank. Doug was one of those persons that you met once and will always remember him. He told me about his daughter and how proud he was of her. He was just a good guy.

Larry Alcantara

March 3, 2011

My deepest sympathies to the family. Doug was a honorable man. He truly was one of the most personable, unassuming and talented leaders I looked up to. Rest in Peace.

Mimi Castillo

March 2, 2011

I would like to extended my heartfelt condolences to Doug Luna and his family, especially to Mercedes. I remember when Mercedes was born, and Doug was extremely happy and proud while showing her off. Doug always had a great smile and something to say about anything. He will truly be missed. I am proud to have known him and be his friend. On behalf of the Filipino Lawyers of Washington (FLOW), we extend our sympathy to his family and friends.

Sharon Poole

March 2, 2011

Noel House Programs is grateful to Doug for his tireless dedication to helping the Indian community thrive. I will miss his valuable input at meal provider meetings. Many condolences to Doug's family.
Sharon Poole

Gary Newte

March 2, 2011

You have our most heartfelt condolences from the family at Northwest Harvest. Mr. Lunas presences will be sorely missed. God bless.
-Warehouse Staff

michael grow

March 2, 2011

Rest in Peace and Thank You for all you dedication and hard work, respectfully, Michael Grow

March 2, 2011

Mercedes: We are so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a fine man,and will be missed by many!

Stephen and Victoria Congiusta

Gemma Di Julio Thielges

March 1, 2011

Doug was a classmate of mine at Mt. Virgin school in Seattle. He was only there from Kindergarten through 2nd grade & I think he then went to St. Mary's school. But it was so nice that he came to our school reunion in June of 2008 - it was our class of 1958's 50 year reunion celebration. I hadn't seen Doug since we were children but was so thrilled to meet him as an adult. Seeing the notice of his death was so startling to me. It sounds like he did a lot with his gifts & talents & was a very kind & generous man. My sympathies to his daughter & family. Gemma Di Julio Thielges

Rachel Butler

March 1, 2011

Condolences to Doug's family and dear friends during this time. We will surely miss his presence at our Meals Partnership Coalition meetings. We could always count on Doug to share a story about his dearly loved clients at Seattle Indian Center, and advocate for the services he believed in providing. The network of emergency food providers feels this loss of a wonderful man.

Shayne Kraemer

March 1, 2011

Doug was a wonderful addition to our meal provider community. His commitment to meeting our community's hunger needs will sorely be missed.

Susan Smith

March 1, 2011

Mercedes, We are so sad to hear of your Dad passing. Our family has had many an event together as parents at Saint Matt's. We always had a great conversation and a good time with your Dad. You were the apple of his eye. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. David, Susan, China and Peter Smith

February 28, 2011

I will remember the great omelets, Doug made for the Pig Roast every year and the conversations we had.

Connie Sugahara
Seattle Cherry Blossom Fest. Board
API Celebration Committee
Seattle, WA

Jenny Tenlen

February 28, 2011

Mercedes, I am so sorry for your loss. Your father was a very special person. My mom and grandmother used to sit behind you both during Mass at St. Matthews, and my grandmother especially enjoyed chatting with you both. May God bless you all.

toni whitegrass

February 28, 2011

I worked with Doug at NICS from 1990 until 1992. Doug was very funny and had a great sense of humor. I am really shocked that he has passed. He will be missed by his many friends, family and colleagues.

Nielle Hawkwood

February 28, 2011

Doug and I attended the University of Oregon at the same time. He lived near me in the "Morton-Earl" dorms. Doug was a dear friend who referred to me as "Sis." He combined a wonderful sense of humour with great humility. We were able to visit a few times after Graduation, and Doug attended my wedding in 1980. He will be sorely missed by all who were privileged to know him.

Mary Lekanof

February 27, 2011

Doug Luna was our esteemed Tribal Court Judge for Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indians of Alaska. He served as a role model for those of us serving on the Judiciary Committee of which he was a member. He will be missed. He recognized me as "Auntie" and his daughter was adopted by our moiety and clan - Raven/Coho and she was given the name "Kintoo" from the late Cecilia Kunz, the highest ranking Raven/Coho. He was very proud of this honor!

Tim Otani

February 27, 2011

Doug had a grand spirit about him...you always knew when he was in a room. He was quick to share stories about a recent trip (which he always seemed to be coming or going from), his daughter's latest accomplishments, or even about work. A smile was always present as was his disarming wit. He will be missed by all that knew him.

Karen Johnstone

February 27, 2011

My deepest condolences to all of Doug's family. Doug exuded warmth, generosity, kindness, wisdom, wit and dignity and he brought these qualities out in the people he knew and loved. A brilliant mind and such a loving heart, radiant smile, amazing cook and the very best friend you could ever have. He was extraordinarily confident and so genuinely humble; balancing these beautifully in loving and powerful service to a very diverse community. I miss him dearly.

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