Doug Stevens

Doug Stevens

Doug Stevens, beloved partner to Michael Pratt, a most loving uncle to a passel of nieces and nephews and a dear friend to hundreds more, died Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020, at his home after a brief illness.

He lived on his own terms and died the same.

He loved sincerely and truly, and in exchange was cherished and admired by the many folks he met and enriched along the way during his life's journey.

Dudley Allen "Doug" Stevens, 73, was born Oct. 24, 1946, to Esther and Elmer Stevens in Palestine, Ill. The family moved soon thereafter to Indiana. He attended Daleville High School. After graduating from Ball State University in 1969 with a major in English Education, he was a drafted into the U.S. Army. He served for two years, primarily at Fort Bragg in North Carolina as a member of the Military Police.

Upon returning to Indiana and his family's home, he engaged in various occupations, eventually working as a benefits counselor for Aspire, before retiring in 2013.

He was a multi-talented man with a larger-than-life personality. He led the restoration of three historic homes in the Muncie area, including the current residence he shared with Mr. Pratt. Each was a work of art, both inside and outside, that earned many kudos. He treasured the peace and serenity of his "kingdom."

He was also known for his zany - some might say wacky - sense of humor and his readiness to host a party. He was known for his many stories, jokes and quick-witted zingers. He also played piano and guitar, and sang with gusto especially songs by Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Buffy St. Marie and a host of other folk musicians. And, yes, of course, he could dance, and was often complimented on his snazzy style of dress. Mr. Stevens and Mr. Pratt were known for their annual Christmas and Fourth of July parties, usually with an overflow attendance of family and friends who didn't want to miss a minute of the frivolities.

Survivors include Michael Pratt, his partner of 29 years; Mr. Pratt's two daughters, Danett Bloom and Emily Lynch; a sister-in-law, Georgianna Stevens; and an extended family of several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great nephews and many, many friends and neighbors of long-standing.

He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Randy and Jerry; a sister, Marilyn; one niece, Paula; and two great-nieces, Amanda and Danielle.

He inspired many to live life to its absolute fullness and challenged them, like Uncle Walter in the children's story, to dance with bears.