H. Douglas Windler

H. Douglas Windler, M.D., passed away August 1, 2021, at The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family; Doug was a dedicated son, father, and husband.

Born in Chicago in 1946, as a child he lived in Illinois, Tennessee, and Michigan. As a young adult, Doug worked as a tradesman, including a stint in Chicago, where he had a hand in the completion of the Hancock Tower. Later, he served in the U.S. Army during the years 1966-68. After his Army service, Doug's love of and respect for nature - which he instilled in all of his children - led to a B.S. in Parks and Recreation Management at Western Illinois University. He then worked as a carpenter for several years in Idaho Springs, CO and West Union, WV. Then, he put his degree to use, working as a park ranger in Doddridge County, WV.

Spurred by the death of his two-year-old daughter, Doug decided to become a doctor, and graduated from the West Virginia University School of Medicine in 1982. After completing his residency in radiology at WVU, he was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force, in which he served three years working at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base as a radiologist. Following his time in the USAF, he practiced radiology in Dayton, Columbus, and Knox County before working at The Ohio State University Medical Center until his retirement in 2011.

A true Renaissance man, Doug was a gracious host, consummate chef, talented musician, and wonderful dancer. He loved live music and the arts; he was an avid golfer and skier. To find him at home would mean he was birdwatching, woodworking, tinkering, gardening, and enjoying the company of his canine companions. He had a well-defined sense of humor that included both a dry wit and a goofy side. He was welcoming, energetic, spontaneous with an infectious enthusiasm, and always willing to lend a hand. Doug had a remarkable determination and ability to manifest his visions into reality, evidenced recently by the celebration of his 75th birthday, a goal he had set for himself.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Nancy Windler, and his daughter, Corina Windler. He is survived by his loving wife, Terry; his children Sarah Windler (Jeremy French), Jenny Windler (Stephen Rice), Sam Windler (Jake Hallett), Jane Windler, Alison Sankey (Jason Johns), and Erin Sankey; his grandchildren West and Coralynn French; dear friends Anne Davidson and Kathleen Windler; Army Brothers Larry Friend and Jay Scott; many loving cousins, good friends, and kind neighbors.

The family wishes to thank the medical and nursing staff at OSU and the VA for their dedication to Doug and his care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sierra Club Foundation.

Please join us for a celebration of a life well lived.

Come dressed comfortably and ready to reminisce about Doug, a man who lived life to the fullest.

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Noon-3:00pm

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

Shagbark Shelter House

(Enter the park at the Cedar Ridge Picnic Area, follow road until it ends. You will see the sign for the Shagbark Shelter House area)

1775 Darby Creek Drive

Galloway, OH 43119

In light of the current COVID situation and in order to prioritize everyone's health and safety, we have chosen to host this event outdoors. The park setting allows for open air social distancing. Because refreshments will be served, we are asking for family and friends to be vaccinated and to wear a mask. Thank you for your understanding.

We would appreciate an RSVP so we can plan accordingly. Thank you.