Douglas W. Kerr

KERR, Douglas W. Douglas W. Kerr, 79, passed away at the Holyoke Soldier's Home on Monday (December 31, 2007). Doug was the son of the late James and Lora (Fuller) Kerr of Feeding Hills, MA. He was born September 23, 1928. Douglas was predeceased by his brothers, Carlton, Hugh, and Malcomb and a sister Roberta Cesan, all of Feeding Hills. Doug leaves his wife Gloria (Hebert) Kerr of 51 years; his sons, Gary and his wife Debra of Somers, Jeffrey and his wife Ericka of Westfield, his sister Priscilla Forsman and her husband Raymond of Feeding Hills, and two sisters-in-law Thelma and Barbara Kerr, also of Feeding Hills. He will be greatly missed by his five grandchildren, John, Ani, Aram, Drew and Garrett. In addition, he leaves several nieces and nephews. Douglas graduated from Agawam High School, Class of 1947. He served his country during the Korean conflict from 1951 until 1953 in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Valley Community Church, past member of Pioneer Valley Radio Control Club. Douglas was a member of the Elm Belcher Masonic Lodge for over 35 years. He was a Lieutenant on the Agawam Fire Department, retiring in 1986 after 23 years of service. An avid outdoorsman, Doug loved hiking the Appalachian Trail, hunting, fishing, building and flying his radio-controlled planes, and gardening. The family would like to express appreciation for all those who showed kindness and compassion to Douglas during his residency at the Soldier's Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 4th 2008 at 10AM in the Colonial Forastiere Funeral Home, 985 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001. The burial will follow in Springfield Street Cemetery, Feeding Hills. Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 6-9PM at the funeral home. Donations in Doug's name may be made to the Holyoke Soldier's Home, 110 Cherry St., Holyoke, MA 01040 or to The Valley Community Church, 152 So. Westfield St., Feeding Hills, MA 01030.