Douglas Van Keulen

Douglas James Van Keulen, age 76, left this earthly life on August 2, 2025, at the George E. Whalen Veteran's Home Ogden due to causes incident to dementia.
Doug was born on March 25, 1949, in Santa Monica, California to George E. and N. Joanne Ulven Van Keulen. It was love at first sight when he met his future wife, Juanita Jean Birdsall, at a friend's birthday party. They were sealed on October 18, 1969, in the Los Angeles Temple.
Shortly after his birth the family moved to Tarzana, California where Doug completed his elementary years. The family moved to Simi Valley, California in 1963, and Doug graduated from Simi Valley High School in 1967. He excelled in playing baseball, being so good that he was given a tryout for the Dodgers. He also loved singing bass in the high school choir, where he was also a member of the Woodsmen Four barbershop quartet. After high school, Doug got a job with Deluxe Check Printers and worked there until he received a draft notice from the Army. He joined the Marine Corps instead in June 1968. He so missed military life that he joined the Air Force in 1972 until 1976.
While living in Kansas, camping in the tent trailer by a nearby lake and fishing was a favorite pass time of Doug's. Family was always on his mind, and he would often wish out loud to see his family. He loved socializing and if a stranger was spotted nearby working for a neighbor, he could be found there visiting with them.
He loved travelling, especially in Europe during the time his wife was stationed in Munich (Munchen), Germany with the Air Force. He would often reminisce about all the wonderful fun times they had as they visited different countries. His favorite was Mainau Island in Lake Constance.
Doug was so proud to have worked for Ping Golf Clubs (Karsten Manufacturing) in Arizona. He loved referring to his days working in the Loft and Lie department and seeing the professional golfers tour the facility. When he spotted someone in public wearing a Ping hat, he made sure to let them know that's where he used to work. Doug started driving big rig trucks in 1989. After settling in Utah, he found work with Specialized Rail Services until retiring December 2013.
Doug was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his wife served as Temple Square missionary ushers for two and half years.
He held callings such as Sunday School president, High Priest Quorum secretary, and a counselor in the bishopric. It was a highlight for him to work with the Young Women and Men and help in the scouting program.
Doug was the most kind, caring, and loving man who loved his wife, church, and family. Whether he was part of what's going on with others or not, if they cried, he cried, if they laughed, he laughed. If he saw or heard of any service needed somewhere, you'd be sure to see Doug was there to help.
Doug is survived by his eternal companion of 55 years, Juanita, Utah. Siblings: Steven "Steve" (Suzan), California; Georgia (Robert) Utah; Thomas "Tom", California; Susan (Edie) Thomas, Michigan. He is preceded in death by his parents, Goerge and Joanne and his sister (Sharon).
A special thank you to all in Delta Pod who lovingly cared for Doug at the VA Home. The CNAs that provided loving personal care as well as the nurses. Thanks to Bristol Hospice for his end-of-life care.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 1480 Phillips St. Kaysville, Utah at 10 AM. Friends may visit with the family from 9-9:45 AM. With Military Honors, interment will take place in Leavitt's Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park 836 36th Street in Ogden