Douglas Gordon Dueweke, 85, of Merritt Island, Florida, passed away on May 12th after living a full and vigorous life. Doug was born on June 13th, 1935 to Omer and Julianna Dueweke in Detroit, Michigan. Much of his childhood was spent on the east side of Detroit before moving to Marine City, Michigan. Doug excelled as an athlete playing basketball, baseball and football. After graduating from Marine City High School in 1953 he continued his studies at the Port Huron Community College before receiving a football scholarship to Wayne State University. After suffering a knee injury, he transferred to the University of Michigan earning a Bachelor of Arts degree.
After graduation, Doug served honorably as a commissioned officer in the United States Marine Corps. His duty included working with the U.S. Navy’s SeaBees, on the integration of the Short Airfield for Tactical Support (SATS) concept. During this period, his unit was deployed utilizing SATS airfields in the jungles of South East Asia in the run up to the Vietnam War. He also managed the Officer’s Club at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, where the drive to eliminate the playing of the drinking game known as “Dead Bug” is memorialized by the “No Dead Bug Allowed!” sign on the ceiling of the O-Club to this day.
In 1962 he met Bonnie Anne Byington and they wed in 1963. Doug was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. He could often be heard saying “family first”! His unwavering commitment to his family, especially his beloved wife Bonnie, was steadfast to the end. Doug was strong in his Catholic faith and remained active with the church, delivering food to the less fortunate for the Saint Vincent de Paul Society.
Along with his wife of 58 years, he is survived by his children, Scott Dueweke (Jennifer) of Leesburg, Virginia, Heidi Carroll (Michael) of Melbourne, Florida and Christopher Dueweke (Carisa) of Cross Junction, Virginia and four beloved grandchildren, Austin Dueweke, Audrey Dueweke, Jack Dueweke and Matthew Dueweke. He is also survived by his sister, Collette Dueweke Livingston.
Donations in his memory can be sent to: Hospice of St. Francis Foundation 1250-B Grumman Place Titusville, Florida 32780. Memorial services will be held at a later time.
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