Douglas Eugene McKeen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas Eugene McKeen on November 19, 2024, at the age of 94. Doug was born on July 4, 1930 in Umatilla County, Oregon, to Harold and Leta McKeen. A child of the Great Depression, Doug grew into a principled man of integrity and honor.

Doug met the love of his life and beloved wife of nearly 52 years, Olive (Liv) O'Neel while they attended the University of Washington. Doug and Liv had four children. Their first child, Kathleen (Kathy) was born while Doug was serving in the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant during the Korean War. Their second, Christine (Dee Dee) was born nearly a year later.

Not long after their third child Lesley was born, Doug founded Totem Food Products, in 1961. Doug and Liv were a team, devoted to one another and mutual partners in the success of the business. Back in the early days of Totem Foods, Liv would care for the children, tend to the house and yard, cook meals and then move to the basement where she would pack nuts into bags for Doug. Doug and Liv were devoted to one another and he gave her immense credit for their business success. In 1965, their fourth and last child, Doug Jr. was born.

Doug was a wonderful father, "one in a million". He made time for all of us. When "Daddy" came home from work, it was the highlight of our day. He was so kind and patient. So incredibly supportive, loving and fun. Not only was he a great father, he was tremendous leader, mentor and teacher to all who knew or worked for him. Dad had a magnetic personality, and was a master of colloquialisms. He never realized how much people were drawn to him, sought him out, and valued his guidance and advice. He was witty and clever with a wonderful sense of humor that put people at ease. He challenged you. He liked to argue and make you defend your position. He absolutely LOVED to tease, and was so much fun to be around!

Doug (Gampo) was a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather. He was so beloved. He was fiercely protective of his grandchildren, especially his granddaughters. Just ask their husbands and old boyfriends! His love for his grandkids and great-grandkids was truly special. Gampo's love was priceless and revered by all.

Doug loved golf and football and was a VERY loyal Washington Huskies fan! In the late 1970's and into the 1980's, Doug and Liv owned Thoroughbred Racehorses. Doug spent a lot of time at Longacres Racetrack and he and Liv traveled along the west coast to watch them run. They both enjoyed traveling and took many vacations. Whether it was Reno/Lake Tahoe or their favorite, Maui, Hawaii. Also, he absolutely LOVED food, and really enjoyed going out to eat it! He and Liv went out to dinner every single Friday. His favorite food was a cheeseburger!! Doug and Liv were constant and busy companions throughout their remarkable lives.

Doug will be forever missed. The many lessons taught are part of us now. Those lessons are for us to pass on, and that we will most certainly do. We also take solace in that he is together again with his beloved wife Liv, and daughter Dee Dee, both of whom preceded his passing.

He is survived by his children, Kathy, Lesley and Doug; grandchildren, Shawn, Kelly, Lindsay, Jordan and Olive (Liv); great-grandchildren, Rex, Vera, Mila and Archie; and nephew, John.

In accordance with Doug's wishes, no funeral service or celebration of life will be held. May you carry the memories of who Doug was, and how wonderful a life it was that he lived.