Douglas Harry Spencer's Obituary
Rodney - Douglas Harry Spencer was born in Lansing, MI on November 20,1926. Doug's extensive life's journey ended on September 14, 2022, at the ripe age of 95. He passed peacefully with loved ones at his side. He was a strong man both mentally and physically.He joined the Navy in 1944 and served proudly until 1968, serving aboard various amphibious and auxiliary ships as well as completing a tour with special operations in Vietnam. Douglas served his country during World War II, Korea, Bay of Pigs, Vietnam, and in the Dominican Republic. He also prided himself on being a qualified Navy instructor to his shipmates in several ships and stations, improving the lives of countless fellow servicemen and women. He retired a decorated Chief Engineman.Rodney, MI was where he chose to live, and ultimately retire, operating DEE GEE's small engine repair shop for 24 years where he was known as not only a skilled mechanic, but a very fair man. Douglas enjoyed his homestead, the wildlife, the many nearby fishing rivers and lakes and of course the local golf course. Nothing was more important to him than his family.Douglas was proud to be part of the Scottish/Irish McCary family clan of Manistee County. He meticulously researched and documented the McCary and Spencer family histories and was the patriarch for both of those families. He had a sense of great pride when talking about his Hopkins ancestors aboard the good ship Mayflower. It was those same meticulous research skills , passed on through genetics, that allowed his son Michael, later known as Roger, to reconnect with his father, allowing Douglas to spend the rest of his years, enjoying the love of his family.He leaves to mourn his grandson Sean and his wife Heidi Nelson; his granddaughters Christina Bergh and Caitilin Nelson; as well as five great grandchildren, Caleb, Irene, Evan, Brady, and Beckett. Douglas was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn in 2020.
Cremation has taken place with his final resting place next to his beloved wife in Martiny Township Cemetery. Formal services will happen in August 2023 during the time of the McCary Family Reunion. Whenever loved ones and friends might gather, he wishes to hear the memories he was a part of and all the new family stories.
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