Douglas Harding Necessary

Douglas Harding Necessary, a long-standing resident of Vero Beach, Florida passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024 at the age of 79. "Doug" is survived by his wife, Blanche Mazur Necessary, his brother Glenn Necessary and sister-in-law Tammie, his sister Kim Stirling and brother-in-law Michael, his beloved sons DH Necessary and wife Jennifer and Ross Necessary and wife Tracy. In addition, Doug leaves his grandchildren Cate, Will, Lorelei and Scarlett and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, William H. Necessary and Barbara Necessary and sister Sherrill Necessary and husband Douglas Partridge.

Doug was born In Los Angeles, California and graduated from Van Nuys High School in the San Fernando Valley. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Industrial Management with High Honors from Auburn University, where he was a member of Phi Kappa Phi. He continued his education, graduating with a Master of Science degree in Contract and Acquisition Management from the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT). He also attended the Harvard University Program for Senior Executives in National and International Security and the United States Army Command & General Staff College.

A decorated combat veteran of the Viet Nam War, he served as a Rifle Platoon Leader in the 25th Infantry Division. He subsequently served on active duty for twenty years retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His decorations included the Purple Heart and numerous other recognitions for his service. His last military assignment was in the Office of the Secretary of the Army as a Military Liaison to both bodies of the United States Congress.

After his military career he joined the Staff of the House Armed Services Committee where he was the principal analyst for United States Marine Corps and Navy policy and acquisition programs. Upon retirement from the Congressional staff, he was a policy, research and development, and acquisition consultant to several Fortune 500 firms dealing with National Security and Defense Procurement.

In 2002 he and his wife took up residence in Vero Beach where he was active in many local causes.

Doug's passion for racing cars and antique cars started with his first stock race car and ultimately took him across the country to display his pride and joy, a 1949 Cadillac that he patiently restored from bare bones. In addition to his love of all things automotive he designed and sailed his boat Pilgrim on the waters of Florida. When not consumed by all of his other interests he became a connoisseur of fine wines and a self-proclaimed grille master!

His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and all who had the pleasure of knowing this singular man.

A private service will be held in California prior to Doug's interment with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

Donations in Doug's memory may be made to the Alzheimer and Parkinson Associations (AAPA) of Indian River County, 2300 5th Avenue, Suite 150, Vero Beach, FL 32960 or to the Indian River Firefighters Benevolent Association, P.O. Box 2014, Vero Beach, FL 32961.

Arrangements by Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, Vero Beach, FL. A guestbook is available at: