Douglas E. Rommel

“I’ll Fly Away” and so it was with Doug, that he passed away in the early hours of the morning on August 11, 2025. We know his beloved son, Jon, was waiting at Heaven’s Gate to welcome him home.

Doug was an only child born to the late, Esther and Clarence Rommel, who grew up on Cushing Ave. in Kettering, Ohio. After graduating from Fairmont High School (Class of ’62) he went on to the University of Cincinnati to study business in the Co-Op program, graduating in June 1967. He was known for his personable, outgoing nature and his friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure in both his professional and personal circles.

In July 1967, he married Jane (Burnison). They began life together in Detroit, Michigan. Doug joined Ex-Cell-O Corporation’s Management Training program, an opportunity unheard of today. Two years later, they returned to Dayton and Doug went to work at the Shriber Company. It would be his favorite work experience. He completed his marketing career working for several companies in the commercial binding and printing equipment business. Over the years, he mentored many people and served on several professional organizations. Everyone that worked for Doug admired his work ethic. They would say “He never asked anyone to work harder than he did himself”.

Doug’s proudest achievements were rooted in his family. He was married to Jane for 58 years and together they raised two fine sons, Jeffrey and Jon (dec. 2021). He was an involved Dad that lead by example. Although he traveled frequently, he made time for his son’s activities and interests. They fondly remembered Camp Kern weekends, fishing, camping and having fun together.

Doug was also a father figure to his nieces Kelly Wilson and Trish Lanning. From assembling their Barbie toys to walking them down the aisle on their wedding day and all the years in between, when they needed a “Dad”, he was there for them.

The joy of his life were his grandchildren, Kelsey and Carson. When they were young, he loved spoiling them with treats and toys. Doug attended all their activities and school events and LOVED every minute he shared with them.

Traditions were important to Doug and he practiced them all his life. Holidays and birthdays were made special by him. He enjoyed simple pleasures, a good CD, a fresh peach and morning coffee with the newspaper. His favorite vacation destination was eating a lobster dinner on Maine’s seacoast.

Doug will be missed and loved forever. His legacy will inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him, reminding us to cherish our families, embrace our passions and approach life with an open and friendly spirit. Most of all, when you are knocked down, get back up!

There will be no visitation or funeral. The family will have a private service at Woodland Cemetery on a later date. We thank the caregivers at Otterbein-Springboro, especially the Hospice team who provided comfort care to Doug. Our heartfelt thanks to family and friends who have been so kind and thoughtful. To Mary and Paul Young, who faithfully visited Doug and have been so supportive, our deepest thanks. We shall never forget.