R. Keith Douglas

R. Keith DOUGLAS "To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of persons and the affection of children... .to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived... ... this is to have succeeded." Ralph Waldo Emerson Keith Douglas, of Bellevue, Washington, died peacefully in the loving embrace of his family on March 12, 2005. Keith will be remembered as a man of great integrity whose life was committed to God, family and public service. He was 79. Keith was born at Swedish Hospital in Seattle on November 15, 1925, the Son of Honorable Judge Malcolm and Clara Douglas. He was raised on Capitol Hill, overlooking the University of Washington campus, which would later become a prominent institution in his life. After graduating from Garfield High School in 1943, he spent 6 months at the UW and joined the SAE Fraternity before enlisting in the Army Air Corps. After the war, he returned to the University of Washington, earning his business degree and marrying Jean Melton Douglas, his love of 56 years. In 1959, they moved to Bellevue to raise their three young children. Keith spent his career in the insurance brokerage business as CEO and Chairman of Parker, Smith & Feek. While a prominent figure in the local business community, he took great pride in fund raising and public service and could often be seen ringing the Salvation Army bell at Christmas time. He was involved with numerous Seattle Area institutions including; Salvation Army, Bellevue Boys and Girls Club, First Presbyterian Church of Bellevue, Central Park Tennis Club and his beloved University of Washington. His involvement with the University goes back to his early years when he would sweep out Hec Edmundson Pavilion for $70 a month, proudly saying "it was one of the better jobs of my career." His association with the school continued throughout his life, holding positions that included President of the Board of Trustees and Alumni Association, and later being recognized with the UW's Distinguished Service Award. He was also active in the President's Club and Tyee Club. A true dawg fan, his autumn afternoons were often spent at Husky Stadium surrounded by close friends and family. He embraced each day of his life to the fullest and pursued many outside interests including; gardening, reading, boating, fishing, golf, tennis, hand ball and long summer days at Hood Canal. He is survived by his beloved wife Jean; daughter Joan Kiefner (Bothell, WA); sons Mac Douglas (Bellevue, WA) and Andy Douglas (Woodinville, WA); and seven grandchildren that knew him simply as "grandpa". A private family service is planned and a public Celebration of Keith's Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a charity of your choice. Keith's favorite charities included; University of Washington General Scholarship Fund c/o University of Washington Foundation, PO Box 358240, Seattle, WA 98195 and The Salvation Army, PO Box 9219, Seattle, WA 98109-0200.