Douglas J. Emery

Douglas John Emery, 76, passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2020 in Lansing, Michigan. Born on November 21, 1943 to John Henry and Nona Marie (Bliss) Emery, Doug spent much of his early life in the Lansing area. He graduated from Eastern High School and attended Michigan State University where he graduated with a degree in geography in 1965 - a passion he would nurture for life.

Following his graduation from MSU, Doug enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in Korea. His service created a passion for travel with trips all over the world continuing throughout his life. Upon his return from the military, Doug began a long career as an insurance agent for Gadaleto, Ramsby, and Associates.

Doug was a lifelong learner - he loved history, music, audiobooks, the History Channel, Senior Classes at MSU - anything that allowed him to grow in knowledge and understanding. He especially liked Civil War history. He even trained as a docent at the Potter Park Zoo, sharing his wealth of knowledge with generations of zoo-goers.

Doug was family oriented and detail oriented, two traits that made him the perfect family social director. He managed the calendar, the planning, and the execution of many family events, from Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations to summer picnics and monthly cousin gatherings.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents.

He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings, Richard (Yolanda) Emery, Marilyn (the late Grant) Luther, David Emery, and Marlene (Zachary) Zeman; his special cousins, nieces, and nephews; and several lifelong friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 12pm, with visitation from 11am to 12pm, at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., in East Lansing. Luncheon immediately following at Jimmy’s Pub, 16830 Chandler Rd, East Lansing. Interment will take place in Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.

Doug specifically asked that no flowers be sent to his services, but that donations be made in his memory to a fund for a memorial bench at Potter Park Zoological Society (1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing, MI 48910) for the next generation of learners and explorers. Please include Doug's name in the memo of any donation to ensure that his bench becomes a reality.