Douglas Ryor Obituary
Published by Legacy on Nov. 3, 2025.
Douglas N. Ryor, 83, of Stevensville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Hanson Hospice in Stevensville. He was born January 9, 1942 in Charlotte, MI to Noble and Mary (Dwyer) Ryor.
All who knew Doug knew he was one of the hardest-working individuals around. As the proud owner of his own lawn irrigation company, Turf's Up, Doug spent his life dedicated to making Southwest Michigan as beautiful as it is-one sprinkler system at a time. His passion was leaving everything better than when he found it, a mantra he carried throughout his professional career. That dedication earned him a long list of loyal customers and lifelong friends. Known for always doing more than expected and striving for excellence, Doug also became proficient in landscaping, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work-skills he brought to countless projects over the years.
Doug was a devoted supporter of the Lakeshore Youth Baseball Softball Association in Stevensville, MI. Dating back to his son Trevor's playing days, he donated his time and resources to field improvements, irrigation systems, and even helped construct one of the park's pavilions. Never one to seek recognition, he gave back simply because he wanted to make things better for others.
A passionate sports fan, Doug loved cheering for the Lakeshore Lancers, Michigan State, and Notre Dame. Some seasons were more rewarding than others, but his optimism never wavered-he simply loved the game and the camaraderie it brought.
Though Doug's profession and hobbies often overlapped, his family was always his true "why." They were his greatest pride, and he loved sharing stories about them with anyone who'd listen. His wife, Leslie, his partner in life for nearly 60 years of marriage, was by his side through it all-on job sites, at hardware stores, and cheering from the stands. Together, they cherished their time in Sebring, Florida, surrounded by family and new friends. One of his few regrets was not spending more time there earlier in life.
Doug's children and grandchildren are reflections of his spirit-driven, hardworking, and full of love, each with their own passions for art, history, sports, and nature. His pride in his children, Tracy and Trevor, extended beyond their careers to the lives they've built with their amazing spouses, Rob and Melody, and their families who share Doug's zest for life.
We love you, Dad, and we will miss you deeply. Thank you for showing us the meaning of hard work, dedication, and the importance of always striving to make things better.
Doug is survived by his wife of 60 years, Leslie (Willobee) Ryor, whom he married on February 12, 1966; his children, Tracy (Rob) Sanders, and Trevor (Melody) Ryor; his grandchildren, Robbie Sanders, Tyler Sanders, Justin Sanders, Mackenzie (Pat) Mulrenin, Jake Ryor, Eric Ryor, and Emma Ryor; and his siblings, John (Carol) Ryor, George (Rita) Ryor, and Ann (Pete) Kiehler.
He is preceded in death by his sons, Derek Ryor, and Darrin Ryor; his sisters, Darlene Ryor, and Rosemary Barone; and his parents.
Memorial contributions may be given to Hanson Hospice c/o Corewell Health, www.give.corewellhealth.org/hospice-donation or to God's Hands for Kids, www.godshands4kids.org.
Legacy.com reports daily on death announcements in local communities nationwide. Visit our funeral home directory for more local information, or see our FAQ page for help with finding obituaries and sending sympathy.