Reginald Edward Dougal

On April 16,2010, REGINALD EDWARD DOUGAL, loving husband of Charlotte Dougal (nee Miller); devoted father of Patrick J. Dougal, Bonnie D. Tuerke and son-in-law John C. Tuerke; grandfather of Christopher M. Feigh, Samuel D. Feigh, nephew of Russell Cook, brother of Delores Gaughenbaugh and Gary Dougal. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends gathered at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, Inc. 7250 Washington Blvd., Elkridge, MD 21075 on Thursday, April 22, 2010 where a Celebration of Life service was celebrated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60601. Inurnment will be held July 1, 2010 at Arlington National Cemetery.

REGINALD EDWARD DOUGAL

Reg was born in Chambersburg, PA - March, 17, 1930 – (St Patrick’s Day)

Music was an integral part of Reg’s life. His primary instrument was the trumpet.

He began playing the trumpet as a child. At age 18, he recorded a wax 78 rpm record at the local recording shop somewhat to the dismay of his mother.

He became a professional musician at age 20 when he was inducted into the prestigious United States Air Force Band during the Korean War, stationed in Okinawa. His motives were partly patriotism and adventure, and partly to make music his career.

It was at this time he found great appreciation and love for the Catholic religion. He had little religious influence growing up. However, when he joined the Air Force, he converted to the Catholic faith.

While overseas, his commanding officer allowed Reg to play “side jobs” with a jazz band he formed, as long as he was fit to play Reveille wake up call on the bugle for the troops in the morning.

So to make sure he was on time, Reg often came back from the band job late at night, dressed in full uniform, laid down in his cot for a few hours sleep, and rose for the task at sunrise.

Being a musician also gave Reg a great sense of humor that came out in many ways, including his soft-spoken and easy-going demeanor.

After tour of duty, he then returned to the states where he formed a band with Johnny Knepper, the original bass player for Les Brown, one of the generation’s top swing bands.

That same year, he met Charlotte. They were introduced through Charlotte’s brother, a fellow band member. They married within one year and remained best friends their entire life.

When Reg and Charlotte decided to have a family, the band lifestyle didn’t quite fit. And then three children showed up to the fill the void – which Reg so greatly welcomed. Everything in Reg and Charlotte’s life was “about you kids”, a phrase they used often.

He provided a strong moral and stable home-life for his children – Bonnie and Pat – all were raised here in Howard County and attended Catholic schools – Mount St. Joe, Archbishop Keough, and St. Louis. And of course, music was such a big part of everyday life from piano, trumpet, and guitar lessons to everyday recordings that filled every room to the many concerts the family attended. He also had the opportunity to enjoy knowing his two grandsons – Chris and Sammy – also have inherent musical appreciation and ability.

The neighborhood and high school friends knew that Mr. and Mrs. Dougal were fun to be around and often came by for jam sessions, a dip in the pool – or a late night card game with Mr. Dougal.

His career with the Federal Government spanned more than 30 years of distinguished service with the Internal Revenue Service and the Social Security Administration.

When he retired, Reg and Charlotte bought a local liquor store and delicatessen which they operated together for 16 years in Elkridge. Reg and Charlotte were well recognized and appreciated as the store keepers for the neighborhood. They continued to enjoy their hobbies – music, concerts, and fishing at Deep Creek Lake and Solomon’s Island.

We all miss our loving Husband, Dad and Grandfather, and plan to carry on his appreciation for family and music. So many of the good times we remember from the past happened because of him.