William Douglas McDaniel

William Douglas Doug McDaniel passed away at the age of 56 on, Monday, November 24, 2008, peacefully in his sleep.

He was born in Buffalo, NY, and also lived in Lexington Park, MD, and Kansas City, MO, before moving to Santa Cruz, Ca in 1961. Doug graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1970, and after working several years on the Santa Cruz Wharf, he went to work at First American Title Company. Later, he was offered a position with Founders Title Company Old Republic Title Company, and eventually ended his career at Santa Cruz Title Company. Doug was loved and respected by his clients and co-workers during his 32-year career.

Surfing was Doug's passion; he always said it was his spiritual sanctuary. He became a surfer at the age of eight and continued to surf until the end.

He loved the outdoors, the sunshine, bike riding, tennis, golfing, and much more. He was fortunate enough to have traveled to places such as Hawaii, Mexico, and Thailand. He especially liked one-on-one trips with his children. He would go camping and surfing along the California Coast with his Son, Michael; and would go camping, whitewater rafting, and take his beloved Grand-Dog to the doggie park, and for long walks with his Daughter, Kelly.

Doug was a kindred spirit who loved almost everyone he ever met, would do anything for anyone who needed his help, and felt deeply for those who were less fortunate.

Doug is survived by his loving parents Betty and Bill McDaniel of Santa Cruz; his sisters Kathy McDaniel Larson, of Fox Island, WA, and Donna Swain of Santa Cruz, CA; his beloved Daughter, Kelly McDaniel, and his best friend and Son, Michael McDaniel; and many Nieces, Nephews, and Great Nephews who adored their fun-loving Uncle very much.

His memorial will be held at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, 1050 Cayuga St. in Santa Cruz on December 12, 2008 at 11:00 A.M.

A paddle out will be organized at a later date to scatter his ashes in the ocean at his request.

Friends are encouraged to give a donation in Doug's name to their favorite charity in lieu of flowers, and to remember him every time you see a surfer.