Douglas Dewitt

Douglas Scott DeWitt, 72, of Winnebago, died Wednesday, April 24th, 2019 in Serenity Hospice & Home in Oregon surrounded by his daughters. Born in Oklahoma City, OK. December 31, 1946 to Preston & Helen DeWitt. Doug served in the US Navy from 1965-1969 as a shipman on the USS Delta servicing other ships in various Vietnam territories. Doug was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing immensely. Over the years he served in many organizations. Doug served as Commander briefly at The American Legion Post 720, Shasta Dam, CA, as well as bookkeeper & many other roles. He served as a Girl Scout leader with his late wife, Mimi for many years with troop 399 of Winnebago & later served as “Cookie Commander” sorting all state-line cookie orders, for which he was recognized with awards.  He acted as a softball coach and assistant coach for his daughter Stephanie’s various teams. Doug’s favorite job was driving a school bus for RPS for several years, where he would buy gifts for all of “his kids” each holiday & loved participating in their school bus rodeo every year. Doug rescued dozens of animals over the years & was a deeply devoted animal lover.  He loved being a Dad, but the greatest role in his 72 years was being the best Grampy to his three granddaughters- who had him most willingly wrapped around their little fingers. They will carry the love and memories shared with Grampy all the days of their lives.  Doug was a truly kind soul, who never hesitated to help where he could. He loved with every inch of his heart. His legacy will be one of just that- love, acceptance and kindness. Survivors include his siblings Danny (Jean) Small, Patricia (Mike) Nardine, his daughters, Tiffany DeWitt, Stephanie (Jared) King, granddaughters Addison, Avery & Emme King. Special friends that he cherished at American Legion Post 720 in Shasta Dam, California. Predeceased by his parents, Preston & Helen, late wives Kathy L. Anderson & Mary E. “Mimi” DeWitt, dozens upon dozens of fur babies, most recently “Little Man”- (the anything but little) cat that was his greatest comfort these last months. He is finally reunited with them all. Daddy. I will miss you forever, love you for always & will live by the lessons & morals you and Mom instilled, all the days of my life. I carry you both in my heart. -S  A huge thank you to the staff at Serenity Hospice & Home in Oregon, IL. Your home is Heaven’s waiting room & each of you are hand-picked earth angels. There are no words great enough to give thanks for the absolute love & care you gave him. May God bless each & every one of you. Also, to Dr. Alexander neurosurgeon, Dr. Richards & Dr. McFarland at Mercy Health Cancer Center. Dr. Jon Strutzenberg & his amazing staff.  A memorial service will be announced in the coming weeks; dates TBD & will be posted here. Please consider a donation to Serenity Hospice & Home in his name.