Douglas "Doug" Peterson Lambert, age 85, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, in Henderson County, North Carolina. Born on December 20, 1940, in Ithaca, New York, he lived a life defined by service, skill, and deep devotion to his family and community.
Doug spent over 25 years as a dedicated paramedic and firefighter with the City of Miami Fire Department, retiring in 1994. His commitment to protecting and serving others continued well into retirement, as he volunteered for more than a decade with the Broad River Volunteer Fire Department.
An electrician by trade, Doug was a craftsman at heart. He found peace in fishing, took pride in woodcarving, and was an enthusiastic ham radio operator. He also had a lifelong passion for building and restoring classic Ford Broncos, a reflection of his hands-on nature and love of mechanical problem-solving.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Doug served honorably stateside prior to the Vietnam era and was a munitions expert and trained marksman, an achievement he held with quiet pride. He was a former member of the Polk County Gun Club and a valued member of Biscayne Bay Lodge 124 of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the State of Florida.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Long Lambert and Lillian Agnes Woolley Lambert; his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Patrick Woodburn; and his brother and sister-in-law, Harry Albert "Bud" and Carol Lambert. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Diane Marie Snay Lambert; his daughters, Dawn Monique Fieler and her husband Kurt, and Diedre Nicole Lambert; his grandson, Darren Lambert Fieler; and several cherished nieces and nephews.
In accordance with the family's wishes, no formal services will be held at this time. A joint service may be held at a later date when Doug and his wife are laid to rest together. Those wishing to honor Doug's memory may make memorial contributions to the Valley Hill Fire & Rescue, 1675 Willow Road,
Hendersonville, NC 28739. For those who prefer to give online, arrangements may be made through the family. The Valley Hill Fire Department responded when Doug was in need and treated him with respect and dignity, a kindness the family will always remember.
Doug Lambert's life was a testament to service, integrity, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the communities he served, and the many lives he touched.
Forest Lawn Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.