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Douglas Armstrong Obituary
Douglas Rea Armstrong of Ventura passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2010. He died after a 17-month battle with glioblastoma.
Doug was born Feb. 25, 1942 in Ventura during the blackout. Doug was the son of Rea and Velma Armstrong and grew up in Santa Paula. He graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1959. He went on to UCLA where he earned a degree in economics in 1963. He served in the Army Reserves for six years. In 1993 he obtained his masters in education, and in 2001 he earned his administrative credential.
Doug and his wife, Judy, were married in 1969 and moved to Ventura in 1972 where they raised their son, Dale. Doug worked for the Santa Paula Elementary School District for 39 years as a teacher and principal. He also helped manage OK Liquor in Santa Paula with his in-laws. He retired from education in 2003 and worked at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura as a gym attendant until declining health restricted his activity.
Doug was an avid golfer. He enjoyed many different hobbies including beer stein collecting, trapshooting, gardening, sports card collecting, kettlebell training with his son, and scaring people with his missing finger. He was an inspiration and positive role model for countless students, fellow colleagues and friends. He was an eternal optimist to the end of his life.
Doug is survived by his wife, Judy; his son, Dale; and his sister, Cheryl.
The family wishes to thank all of their friends, the UCLA Medical Center Staff, Dr. Gary Deutsch, Dr. Lynn Kong, and The Palms at Bonaventure staff for their care and consideration of Doug and his family over the last 17 months.
There will be a private burial at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be donated in Doug's honor to your favorite charity or high school athletic program.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Armstrong
December 13, 2010
I was sad to hear of Mr. Armstrong's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at Bedell Elementary for a only a couple of years but he left me with many wonderful memories. My condolences to his family.
Estela Montiel
December 13, 2010
I was sad to hear of Mr. Armstrong's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at Bedell Elementary for a only a couple of years but he left me with many wonderful memories. My condolences to his family.
Joe Gaynor
November 26, 2010
My wife and I join in extending our condolences to Judy and Dale. Doug was a wonderful, thoughtful, vibrant person that everyone seemed to take to. I think of him every time I play at Mountain View and when I go to work out at the gym.
Joe and Elaine Gaynor
Cynthia DelRio
November 25, 2010
My condolences go out to the family of Mr. Armstrong.I met Mr. Armstrong when he helped out with the summer program for kids at Glen City School about 40 years ago .Judy wasnt even his wife at that time but even being a lil kid i knew there were sparks between them.Its funny but thats the memory that has always stuck with me and at this time i hope its one that along with all your other memories can bring you strenght . God Bless You.
Dan Peck
November 25, 2010
Mr. Armstrong was my favorite teacher at Blanchard School. He always made time to shoot some hoops with us boys. My heart and prayers go out to his family.
Janis Richardson Schmutte
November 23, 2010
Count me as another who remembers being there when Doug was climbing the tether ball pole and lost his finger. I was with him all through school and then we met again when he taught two of my kids at Blanchard School. We were so sorry to hear of his passing but know his influence will be remembered always.
Clara Behrens
November 22, 2010
Judy,
Doug contributed alot to our schools, and was appreciated by many.
Love,
Clara Behrens
Scott Rushing
November 21, 2010
Dear Judy and Family; Doug was impressive in many ways...husband, father, brother, educator, role model, athlete, friend, and more......my thoughts of Doug will always include that big smile....thinking of you at this difficult time.
November 20, 2010
It saddened me to read about Doug's journey coming to an end my condolences to his family. He was a long time friend
Eloy T. Santoyo CLASS OF '59'SPHS
November 20, 2010
Dear Judy,
Tom and I were sadden to read of your loss.
Tom and Doug were close when they were in school, and Tom was there when Doug lost his finger....I don't know why, but it still sticks in Tom's memory.
Our heartfelt sympathy to you and Dale.
Tom and Karyne Roweton
Denise Backman-Gilliland
November 19, 2010
Mr. Armstrong was my teacher at Isbell school in the 60's and my co-worker at Blanchard School in the 70's. Though I have not seen him in many many years, he has remained a wonderful memory of my "growing up years". My condolences to Judy, Dale, and Cheryl.
Laura Galvan
November 19, 2010
I was so saddened to hear of Doug's passing (it took me quite a while to be able to refer to him as Doug). He was my 6th grade teacher at Blanchard. I, too, am missing a finger and Doug and I shared that special bond. I later had the opportunity to work with him at SPESD during our tenure there. He had a heart as big as his stature. His primary concern was always the students and I am proud to have worked with him. Please accept my sincere condolences on Doug's passing. He was a GREAT man!
Patrick & Chanda Stockton
November 19, 2010
Mr. Armstrong will be missed by many people. He touched our lives in such positive ways at Blanchard School. He will always be remembered at OK Liquor. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this sad time.
Rest In Peace Mr. Armstrong. We will never forget you! Thank you for making all of your students better people.
With love, Patrick & Chanda Ruiz Stockton
November 19, 2010
doug was such a great guy & a devoted teacher to his students. were so sorry for your loss. he was truly a good man. ray& sandra cortinas. our children, priscilla, milton& denese who were students of doug's.
Rob Lemons
November 19, 2010
Mr. Armstrong, great guy, Great memories back in the days at Blanchard Elem School. Condolences to his family.
Rob Lemons - Santa Paula
Cathy Metelak
November 19, 2010
Doug came into my mind the other day in a very pleasant memory. He was a truly good guy. I am so sorry for your loss. Cathy Metelak
November 19, 2010
Dr. Armstrong was my vp at isbell for years. he let me off the hook more than a few times. sorry to hear hes gone.
Racheal Baker
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