John William Douglas

1939 - 2024

John William Douglas

February 3, 1939 - December 13, 2024

Richland, Washington - John William Douglas (Big John) passed away peacefully on December 13th, 2024, at his home in Richland, Washington. He was born to Foster and Catherine Douglas on February 3, 1939, in Yakima, Washington. He graduated from Wapato High School in 1957 and married the one true love of his life, Judy Amsbaugh, the same year on September 26th. They moved to Seattle, where he attended the University of Washington on an athletic scholarship. He played basketball for four years and threw the javelin, where he nearly qualified for the Olympics.

After completing his Bachelor's degree in business, he and Judy returned to Wapato to begin his farming career and raise their three daughters, Kim, Holly, and Jill. In 1980, he and his brother Bill purchased farm ground in Columbia Basin and founded Douglas Fruit Company (packing and storage facility) in 1983. He continued the farming legacy established by his father, Foster, growing stone fruit, pears, and apples. John was active in the industry for 60 years, serving on the Soft Fruit Commission for 30-plus years. He was very passionate not only about farming and growing trees but also about providing opportunities for his employees. His love of farming was unparalleled. Big John was frugal and selfless, and his primary commitment was always to ensure his family and future generations were cared for, including being happy and safe. He accomplished this and more.

Throughout his life, he remained active in athletics, playing tennis, golf, fly fishing, and salmon fishing in Alaska with his sons-in-law, friends, and grandchildren. Eventually, he even embraced his granddaughters Chelsea and Mikal at Fish Camp. Later in his career, he and Judy would spend winters in Palm Desert, where they enjoyed the warm weather, spent time with friends, and played bridge. He was a big man with a gruff first impression, but for those who knew him, he was a kind, gentle giant with a huge heart.

He is survived by his brother Bill Douglas; his daughters Kim, Holly, and Jill; his grandchildren Levi, Tyler, Mikal Mae, John, Chelsea, Nicholas, and Ciara; and his great-grandchildren Charlie, Blake, Nixon, Robbie, and Seve.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Chaplaincy Hospice Care. 1480 Fowlers Street, Richland, WA 99352. (509) 943-1114 or any charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on January 3rd, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Sunset Gardens, 915 Bypass Highway, Richland, WA 99352.