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Douglas Carpenter Obituary
Douglas Alton (Doug) Carpenter, age 58, entered into the presence of God on May 6, 2014. He was born on the Fourth of July to Norman and Donna Carpenter of Newport Beach, who preceded him in death. He grew up in Newport Beach and graduated from Newport Harbor High School in 1973.
After attending Multnomah Bible College in Portland, Oregon, Doug returned to Southern California where he worked as a salesman at Crest Steel. Doug met the love of his life, Holly Tillman of Newport Beach, on a blind date in 1975. They were married 4 years later at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. In 1988 he and fellow entrepreneur, Jim Stavis, met at the right time and the right place to create a company that was truly a miracle in itself.
Doug's passions were his faith, his family and his work. He and Holly enjoyed a full life of traveling, cooking, and just being together. Doug was an incredible father who received tremendous joy from his children. He also enjoyed scuba diving, weekends in Catalina, and relaxing on his family boat. Doug was larger than life and made friends wherever he would go. He was gentle, witty, genuine, and had a heart of gold. He brightened the lives of everyone he knew.
Doug is survived by his devoted wife Holly of 35 years, his son Grant (24) and daughter Jillian (18). He also leaves behind his beloved Golden Retrievers and a multitude of friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will take place Wednesday, May 14, 11:00 a.m. at Seacoast Grace Church in Cypress followed by a reception at the Long Beach Yacht Club.
The family has requested donations be made in memory of Doug to either the Children's Dental Health Clinic at 455 East Columbia St., #32, Long Beach, CA 90806, or the Memorial Medical Center Foundation at 2801 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90806. Please sign the guestbook at www.presstelegram.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Carpenter
June 1, 2014
I've occasionally read an obituary of someone I didn't know & wondered if they really were as wonderful & amazing as it said - in Doug's case, this was definitely so! As one of his therapists that had the privilege to work with him over the last few years at LBMMC, he inspired us all with his gentle spirit & determination to do his best, no matter how he was feeling. We will fondly remember the "Dog Wall" he started in his room, full of the staff's pet photos...he always asked about my dog by name & was always tickled by her antics...Although I only knew Doug a short time, he made a lasting impression & will be missed & thought of fondly. My prayers are with Holly, Grant & Jillian - he so often spoke of his love for you all & how proud he was of his kids - his lessons & love will live on through you...
Gaby Avila
(LBMMC Physical Therapy)
Jerry Mashburn
May 14, 2014
A great friend, a great father and a great man. We will miss you dearly Doug.
E.C. Mueller
May 13, 2014
One of my first friends when I moved to California in 1966 during 5th grade. A buddy even after I moved away from Newport Beach in 1971. A quick smile, great wit and a big heart. Doug will be missed. Our prayers and condolences to Holly and the Carpenter family.
Claudia Scotland
May 12, 2014
Doug was my number one cousin. We had a wonderful childhood together. Called me Cuz and always told me how much he loved me. I will miss him always. Thoughts and prayers, to Holly, Grant and Jillian.
Claudia Scotland
May 11, 2014
A very sad loss ,Doug was kind and an exceptionally good man .
I remember Doug telling me when his father died " he knew where he was going " so I know Doug knew where he was going as we'll .
I suspect Norm , Donna and Doug are together now ,grateful to be in the presence of God .
Rest in peace my friend ,you did a great job inspiring all of us
during your time on earth !
Dave Geoffroy
May 10, 2014
Truly a charming and wonderful man. Doug will be remembered often and sadly missed by everyone.
Love to Holly, Grant and Jillian.
Joanna, Ashley and Andrew
Frank MacMillan
May 10, 2014
Doug was a childhood friend and a great man. He will be missed by all. Thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
c b
May 10, 2014
To the Carpenter family: Many thoughts are with you and each one brings a prayer, that you will know God's comfort during this time of despair. ( John 14:18)
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