Douglas Thompson
Dec 9, 1952 - Aug 21, 2025
Douglas "Doug" Walsh Thompson passed away on August 21, 2025, in Tulsa. Born December 9, 1952, to Max and Claudean Thompson, Doug built a life defined by loyalty, laughter, and leadership - at home, at work, on campus, and on the golf course.
Doug graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in marketing, where he was a proud member of Phi Delta Theta. Never one to stop learning, he later returned to school to earn a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston. Following in his father's footsteps, Doug served as President of Southwest Filter Company, originally founded by his dad. Under Doug's leadership, the company grew from a predominantly elements-based business into a manufacturer known for building some of the largest vessels in the industry. He led with high standards, a sharp mind, and a deep commitment to the people who worked alongside him. A lifelong and enthusiastic supporter of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, Doug hosted tailgates for home games and traveled near and far to cheer them on. Orange ran in his veins- win or lose, he was there.
One of Doug's greatest joys was golf, not just the game itself, but the camaraderie, the competition, and especially the commentary. He was a proud member of Tulsa Country Club, The Patriot, The Golf Club of Oklahoma, and Karsten Creek. Each winter he escaped to Scottsdale, renting houses big enough to host a rotating crew of friends and family, making sure no one was left out of the fun. Doug had a particular talent for delivering a perfectly timed, off-color one-liner the moment someone else hit a bad shot, something he seemed to enjoy just a little too much. He loved a friendly wager, too; humility wasn't always his strong suit, and more than once a rough round led to bold bets that didn't quite go his way. Win or lose, he made every round unforgettable. He shared this passion for the game with his son, Adam, passing down a love of fairways, fast greens, and lively side bets. He also took immense pride in his daughter Amanda's calling to become an emergency room nurse, admiring her compassion, grit, and dedication to patients in their most vulnerable moments.
Doug married Marcy Knierim in December 1975, and together they raised a family he adored before her passing in 2010. He is survived by their children and grandchildren, son Adam Thompson (Jessica), children Graham and Callan; daughter, Amanda Whited (Scott), and their children Raleigh and Sebastian; his sister, Claudia Harveth; and his niece, Erin Hadwiger (August). He also shared many joyful years with Monica Snyder, whose steadfast love and friendship enriched the latter season of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Marcy, and his brother-in-law Mike.
More than anything, Doug was a friend to everyone. He had an extraordinary gift for staying connected-never letting time or distance weaken a bond. Whether you knew him from childhood, college, work, or golf, Doug made you feel like you were his closest friend-because, to him, you were. His loyalty ran deep, his presence was unforgettable, and his ability to make people laugh, especially at themselves - was unmatched.
A celebration of Doug's life will be held at Tulsa Country Club on Friday, September 12 at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to the Oklahoma State University Foundation,
Muscular Dystrophy Association or to a
charity of your choice.
Doug lived big-big heart, big laugh, big circle of friends. His legacy is the love he gave, the friendships he kept, and the joy he brought to every room (and every fairway). He will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered.
Ninde Funeral & Cremation | (918) 742-5556 | ninde.com
Ninde Funeral & Cremation
(918) 742-5556
Published by Tulsa World on Sep. 10, 2025.