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Douglas John Simerson

April 17, 1946 - July 16, 2023

Obituary For Douglas John Simerson

Douglas John Simerson, age 77 of Harrietta, passed away on July 16, 2023 at Autumnwood of McBain. He was born on April 17, 1946 in Harrietta to Lawrence and Fay (Good) Simerson.

Doug served in the United States Air Forceas a B-52 crew chief during the Vietnam War. His favorite assignment was in Alaska.

He was a printer for 30 years, a gentleman farmer for many decades, and a foster parent for over 20 years. Doug loved to be outdoors (Big Chief Happy Saw) and was an avid hunter and forager. Doug had a patient and calming demeanor and would always give children the extra time they needed. He enjoyed working with his hands and caring for others (human and animal). When faced with choices in life, Doug always led with his generous heart. Doug found faith in The Lord Jesus Christ and faithfully attended the Evening Light Tabernacle Church for over 50 years serving as a song leader and a deacon.

He is survived by his wife; Debra Kay Simerson of Harrietta, sons; Matthew (Jennifer) Simerson of Shoreline, WA. daughters; Sharolyn (Juan) Garcia, Rebecca (Richard Mark) Telgenhoff of Zeeland, Martha (Keith) Crawford of Kenai, AK. Step-sons; Scott (Lindsey) Olin of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, Nathan (Tamera) Olin of Kingsley, Dan (Michelle) Olin of Traverse City, adoptive children; Paul (Alexa) Searson of Grayling, Tiffany Awrey Simerson of Kenai, AK, Heather (Andrew) Weber of Palmer, AK, Jovon Simerson of Boyne Falls, 20 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, siblings; Lawrence E. Simerson of Clarksburg, WV, Sally (Mike) Fearnow of Lake City, Everett L. (Bobby Fae) Simerson of Metter, GA, Carolyn (Corky) Shortsle of Lake City, and Chuck (Sheila) Simerson of Cadillac.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Fay, and his siblings Sally, Carolyn, and Charles.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 21 at the Harrietta United Methodist Church with Pastor Caleb Simerson officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of service on Friday. Burial will take place in the Slagle cemetery with the Cadillac Area Honor Guard performing military honors. A luncheon will be held following the service at the Harrietta Village Hall. Memorial contributions can be made out to Munson Hospice. The family is being served by the Burkholder Family Funeral Home of McBain. Thoughts and prayers can be expressed by visiting the online obituary at burkholderfunerals.com

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Condolences

August 04, 2023

Ann (Klingbeil) Banks

My heart felt sympathies to all of Doug's family. He was always super helpful to my Mom and a good neighbor over the many years. I can remember babysitting for his children a few times. May you find peace and comfort in all your cherished memories. Ann (Klingbeil) Banks
July 19, 2023

Katelyn

Uncle Doug Where do I start? Always the lighthearted jester, if you weren't in a good mood or feeling like yourself, in 2 seconds flat he would have you laughing louder than the 4th of July fireworks. If there was something you needed that he had, mention that need once, and whatever it was you where asking about would appear, almost as if he magically pulled a rabbit out his hat(and I'm fairly certain he did just that a time or two growing up). Quiet in his own struggles, but willing to barter wether it be exchange of services, use of his farming experience/equipment, or good old home cooking. Never turned down pie, cake, or brownies, and every single thing we made him as kids was his "absolute favorite, gotta get the recipe" even if it was a mud pie with stick utensils. When he got you alone, he was a wealth of wisdom, somehow knowing just what you were going through, and having at least 3 solutions ready for any obstacles. More than once he encouraged me to do something I'd only dreamed of doing. Made my accomplishments which seemed mundane to me, feel like I was on path to save the world, even if all I was doing was raising boys. I hope he's up there raising a ruckus, causing all of heaven to chuckle. Forever he will be "Great" Uncle Doug.
July 19, 2023

Carol (Williams) Boyer

My husband was a cousin to Doug and he told me many wonderful stories of their adventures together along with Chuck and their local pals. As a teacher I also had some of his children in my classroom. So sorry to hear of his passing. Can't imagine what my Chuck and him are up to now in God's kingdom. Prayers for all of the family. Totally understand what you are going through right now.
July 19, 2023

Nancy Williams Gustafson

My condolence to Doug's family...he was a classmate of mine in the Class of 1964 at Mesick High School. Having been away for 55 years and only brief visits to the Mesick area, it has been hard to keep up with everyone. Doug sure led a great life serving God, country and family, so much I was unaware of. God bless you ALL in this time of grief. Nancy Williams Gustafson