DOUGLAS M. SMALL

DOUGLAS M. SMALL 1922 - 2022 HOLYOKE Douglas M. Small passed away on Thursday, September 22, 2022, at the Soldier's Home of Holyoke. Douglas was born in Springfield, Ma. on August 10, 1922. He recently celebrated his 100th birthday at a party attended by many friends, neighbors, and his devoted family. He was an avid fisherman, having family roots in the Maine lobstering and boat building industries. Before his wife and constant companion, Mae, passed away in April 2008, they traveled throughout Europe using itineraries they planned together. Upon retiring from DieElectrics in Chicopee, they converted a van and traveled extensively throughout the US, spending a summer touring Alaska and another summer in Hawaii. They cherished their time together. Always up for an adventure. He was passionate about his family, and nothing was more important. He was the loving father to Douglas G. Small and his wife, Judy, of Worthington, MA; Carol A. Small and her life partner, Hank Tujague, of Agawam, MA; and Rodney J. Small and his wife Heidi of Cotacachi, Ecuador. Grandchildren include Jennifer Small of Goshen, MA; Jeffrey Small of West Simsbury, CT; Christopher Skala of Kennebunk, ME; Brandon Small of Barkhampsted, CT; and Eric Small of Chicago, Ill; and several great grandchildren. As a World War II Navy veteran, he will be buried at the convenience of the family with full military honors. The family wishes to thank and commend the staff and caretakers at the Soldier's Home of Holyoke. Without exception, everyone raised the bar for care, compassion and empathy. In the short time that he was there, he grew to cherish all his caregivers and the family truly thanks them for all their efforts. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Congregational Church of Chesterfield, PO Box 56, Chesterfield, MA. 01012.