Doug Doane

Doug Doane was born on September 5, 1938, and entered eternal life on March 25, 2026, at the age of 87.

He is survived by Janice, his cherished wife of 30 years; his stepsons, Marc (Heidi) and Jay (April) and his four beloved grandchildren, Anna, Cadence, Liam, and Finn.

Doug was the son of the late Jerry Doane and his stepmother, Leota (Carpenter) Doane. His mother was Ester Lenore Merritt. He is survived by his sister, Linda (Mark), and was preceded in death by his brother, Stanley (Esther).

In addition to his immediate family, Doug was blessed with a loving extended family, including Michael and Marilyn Happy, Kathy, Tina and Janice Lemanski and many nieces and nephews. Doug was preceded in death by John, Bob, Gordie, Kenny and Joanne Lemanski.

He was also blessed with dear and faithful friends, including Diane Mousseau (the late Jerry), Russ and Sylvia Milan, the Kaczmarek family, and Rick Sule.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Kala Ramasamy for the compassionate care, medical expertise, and love shown to Doug.

Doug lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. He began each day with gratitude, often proclaiming, "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad" These words reflected the joyful and faithful spirit with which he lived each day. A devoted member of St. John XXIII Parish for over 25 years, Doug generously shared his time and talents in many roles, including Parish Council member, lector, cantor, Eucharistic minister, and choir member. His presence was a constant in parish life, and his faith shone through in all he did.

Doug dedicated 50 years to education, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. He served as a teacher, coach, principal, and counselor, spending 43 years with Saginaw Township Schools and seven years at Nouvel Catholic Central High School. He had a remarkable gift for connecting with young people, and it was common for former students to approach him with gratitude and fond memories of the difference he made in their lives.

He was a passionate fan of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions, rarely missing a game and always cheering them on with enthusiasm.

Doug found his greatest joy in his family. He loved attending his grandchildren's many activities-soccer games, choir performances, basketball games, and music concerts, and was always their biggest supporter.

He also treasured time spent traveling and relaxing. Doug and Janice enjoyed 20 years of motorhome camping adventures, often accompanied by their beloved cocker spaniels, Onyx, Gibson, and Bello. Special trips to Italy and Ireland created lasting memories he cherished deeply.

In recent years, Doug found his greatest happiness in the simple moments-being at home with his beloved wife, Janice, and their dog, Bello. He was content, grateful, and at peace, embracing the quiet joys of everyday life.

Doug will be remembered for his kindness, his steady faith, and the lasting impact he made on his family, his students, and his community.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. John XXIII Church 151 St. Mary's Drive, Hemlock, Michigan on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 am. Visitation will take place from 9:30 am until the time of Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made St. John XXIII Church or Amazing Grace Animal Shelter.