My brother was the youngest of five kids. He grew up being the butt of many jokes and was teased, with love of course, by me and my other three siblings mercilessly. Reminiscing about these times always made for entertaining family get togethers especially during the holidays. Perhaps less fun for him than the rest of us. But teasing is expected when you’re the youngest and it helped make him who he was. A kind, loving, gentle soul with a great sense of humor who didn’t mind laughing at himself.
As teens our family spent Saturday evenings at the local race tracks. I’m certain that was what launched his avid love for racing. Our family loved watching sports and Doug was a devoted Patriots fan. We always had pets growing up and he loved his dogs more than life itself. He always had a dog or two in tow.
Doug spent a few years trying to find his life’s passion. He worked as a farrier in his early twenties and always spoke very fondly of those times. Eventually he found success working in construction despite his fervent fear of heights. He loved being creative and working with his hands.
Doug touched many lives. I recall my sister telling a story about Doug visiting her in Alabama and they went to Talladega Race Track. Within minutes she heard someone yell out “Doug!”. We still have no idea how a kid from a small town in rural NJ ran into a friendly face down in Alabama. But that is who he was. His genuine kindness resulted in him making friends wherever he went. He had a big heart and was the type of person who was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and strangers alike. If only he could know the good he brought to people’s lives by donating his organs. He would be happy to know this gesture resulted in one final good deed.
He was loved by many and is missed terribly. I don’t think a day goes by that we don’t think of him.