Mitchell "Captain Doug" Douglas House

Born May 4, 1942, in Homestead, Florida, to Carrie Belle and Lloyd Mitchell, Doug grew up alongside his brother, James House, and sister, Lana House.

On January 7, 1962, he married the love of his life, Alma Jean Brown. Together, they built a beautiful life spanning more than 64 years, raising two children, Mitchell “Mitch” House and Pamela “Pam” Minton.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife, Alma Jean House; brother, James A. House; daughter, Pamela Minton, and son-in-law, Bruce; grandchildren, Kristin LeFort-Elsenheimer and her husband, John, Joshua Minton, Leah Lenz and her husband, Steven, and Kate House; and great-grandchildren, Mitchell LeFort, Emmalynn LeFort, Aiden Minton, Brooke Minton, Landon Lenz, and Ava Lenz.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lana House; son, Mitchell House; grandson, Ryan Wells; and grandson-in-law, Raymond LeFort.

To know Captain Doug was to know a man as wild, stubborn, adventurous, and unforgettable as the Everglades themselves.

A legendary fisherman, alligator wrestler, fishing guide, and airboat captain, Doug opened the first airboat tours in Everglades City, Florida. He didn't simply build businesses; he built opportunities, created jobs, and helped shape the community he loved.

Doug was larger than life, hardworking, intelligent, stoic, and determined. He never minced words, and once he had a plan, you could bet he would see it through, probably bringing you along for the adventure whether you were ready or not.

He never met a stranger, although plenty of strangers met Captain Doug. By the time they left, they were friends, usually carrying a story they would never forget.

And those fishing stories? Well, the fish might have gotten bigger with every telling, but so did the legend of the man telling them.

His adventures and friendships stretched from North America to Guatemala, leaving an impact that will be felt for generations.

But beyond the adventures and accomplishments, Doug's greatest legacy was his family. He loved his life, his family, and above all, Jesus. His love wasn't always spoken in sentimental words, but it was evident in his determination to provide, protect, and help those around him succeed.

Today, the Everglades have lost a legend, his family has lost a piece of its foundation, and Heaven has gained one remarkable storyteller.

We find peace imagining Doug reunited with those who went before him, standing beside beautiful waters with a fishing pole in hand, probably telling Jesus how he would have done things differently.

Rest peacefully, Captain Doug.

Your work here is finished, but your stories will never end. Your family will carry your love, the Everglades will carry your spirit, and generations will carry your name.

May the waters always be calm, the fish always be biting, and Heaven be ready for one heck of a fishing story.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever our Captain Doug.

Captain Doug's Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Hodges Funeral Home, 525 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108. Burial will follow in Naples Memorial Park and Cremation Gardens.