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Michael Douglas Obituary
A memorial visitation for Michael G. Douglas, best known as "Swede", 64, Lawrence will be held from 5-7pm, Friday, March 4, 2016 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. No formal service will be held per Swede's request. He passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at his home.
Swede was born April 4, 1951 in Salina, KS the son of Gene and Eleanor (Oborg) Douglas. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Diane (Johnson) Douglas and their two sons Walker and fiancé, Sarah Shaffer, Lawrence, KS; Cole, Oklahoma City, OK; Sarah's two sons Elliott and Silas; one sister, Susan Baird and husband, Todd, Salina, KS; two brothers, Steve Douglas and wife, Debbie, Assaria, KS, Roger Douglas and partner, Abdo Dagher, Vancouver, BC; and several nieces, nephews, and great nieces, nephews.
He graduated from Southeast Saline High School as a standout athlete. He then attended the University of Kansas where he received his Bachelor's degree in Business. Swede was also a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. After graduation he became an IRS Agent where he served 37 years until he retired in 2010.
Swede was a member of the Lawrence Country Club for 36 years, where he served as a two-term Board President, and two-term Board Treasurer. He was an avid golfer and spent much of his time enjoying the game with his buddies. Including an annual trip for over 30 years to Lake Tahoe, and several other golfing adventures with his best pals. He was also the "appointed" Treasurer for many of the bets placed on the golf course because he was a trustworthy man with high integrity. Swede also helped organize fundraising efforts through golf events to help benefit Free State Athletics as well as the spirit squads. He enjoyed his time as the Chair for the Free State Football Team breakfast from 2000-2004. He was an avid chef at home and loved cooking dinner for the family and for various other gatherings like tailgates, team dinners, and watch parties.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in his name to Center for Advanced Heart Care - KU Med, The American Heart Association, or the Kansas Athletics Williams Education Fund and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary.
Online condolences may be sent to www.warrenmcelwain.com.
Please sign this guestbook at Obituaries.LJWorld.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Douglas
Michael Mitchell
March 23, 2016
Had I not seen the nickname "Swede" I would have passed over the obituary. I have a thousand stories of playing golf and poker and attending KU basketball and football games, and a few parties...well...lots of parties during the 70's! Every memory of Swede is absolutely great...he was truly a gentle giant. John Brahler, John King, my brother's Steve and David Mitchell, Gary Aldrich, Stan Hazlett,Craig Starks, and too many more to mention, just loved the guy! We all lost our share of money to him at cards or on the golf course...he was a great competitor! One story: On the 15th hole on Hidden Valley (a par 3 over water)Swede, who had been having a bad day, and was down to all of us playing him in individual matches, hit his tee shot to the back fringe, not on the green, but about three feet off. He had doubled his bet with every person,(pressed) and everyone else had already made a 3. Swede looked very likely to 3putt from where he was located, but somehow, he made the putt for a birdie 2, broke into the biggest grin and said, "Never give up!" I am sure he didn't give up ever in anything he did. He will be missed and my deepest condolences go out to his family. Rest in peace my friend! Mike Mitchell (now living in Woodland, CA
March 9, 2016
Swede was a long time friend. Prayers to the family. Richard George.
Gary Hines
March 7, 2016
My deepest sympathy to Swedes family He will be missed by all who knew him
American Heart Association
March 5, 2016
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Claude/Melba
March 5, 2016
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Steven L. George
March 5, 2016
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
March 5, 2016
Diane, our sympathy to you and the family. Swede was a kind and gentle man and we will always cherish having known him.
Jim and Vickie Otten
March 4, 2016
I knew Mike from early grade school all through our days at Assaria High School and Southeast of Saline. He was a phenomenal athlete, competitor, teammate and friend. So sorry for the Douglas' family loss. His passing is far too early. Rest in Peace. Steve and Stormy Shogren, Wichita
Rodney Buxton
March 3, 2016
This was quite a shock to learn of Mike's passing (what I knew him as all through grade school and high school). My memories of his leadership as a quarterback on the high school football team burst to the surface of my consciousness. Rest in peace.
Larry Sinks
March 3, 2016
Swede, you were an unbelievable great man. I loved playing golf with you and sharing stories with all the fellas. Diane and your boys loved you so much. You should be very proud of the family you raised and the memories you left. Godspeed my friend
Pam Pine
March 3, 2016
Swede will be missed by many as he was a good dad, husband, and friend.Our thoughts are with you Diane, Walker and Cole
Heaven got a good man who will always be with you.
Pam, Jay , Jamie and Brett
Cindi Long
March 3, 2016
Swede will be greatly missed. He was an outstanding member of the Lawrence Country Club and I enjoyed working with him when he was Board President. My thoughts are with you Diane. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need anything.
Joan Starks
March 3, 2016
To the Douglas family- Swede's memories will always be there! Prayers and strength for your family at this sad time!
March 2, 2016
Swede - it was an honor to have known you since my early days as a youngster in Salina. Your great wit and sense of humor will always be remembered. God bless you, Will Lynch.
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Memorial Events
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Funeral services provided by:
Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
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