Douglas Alan Rettew

Born in Teaneck, New Jersey on November 29, 1946 to Landis and Elizabeth Rettew, Doug went to Teaneck High School and earned a degree from the University of Pittsburgh. After graduating from Pitt, Doug married his high-school sweetheart, Sandra. He served in the Army and then embarked on a career in commercial banking and finance—beginning with Chase Manhattan—that spanned four decades and took him from New York to Florida.

Post-retirement, Doug and Sandra made Lakewood Ranch, Florida their home. There, he embraced golfing (unsuccessfully), gardening (successfully), traveling (also successfully), and enjoying both the grand and simple pleasures of life. One of those was art, frequently cranking out his signature and iconic cartoon characters, birdhouses, and other original works.

Doug had a penchant for dressing sharply—even when gardening, creating, and fixing things around the house. All the while, his quick wit and ability to make people laugh resulted in a treasure trove of stories that continue to bring smiles to those fortunate enough to have known him.

Doug is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Sandra; his son Doug (“Chip”), married to Michele, their children Gianna and Anthony; his son Mike, married to Courtney, their children Ainsley, and Riley; his brother Denis, married to Rosemary, their sons Greg and Brad; and his sister Mary Murray, married to Bill (deceased), and their sons Bill, Bruce, and Paul. A hands-on and fun dad and grandfather, Doug’s love for his family leaves an indelible imprint on their hearts.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or the Prostate Cancer Foundation (pcf.org).

A celebration of Doug’s life will take place on January 24, 2024 at 11:30 at the Church of Saint Patrick, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34241; followed by a burial service at 1:30 at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, Florida 34241.