Douglas Bard

It is with warm remembrance and celebration that we announce the passing of Douglas Calvin Bard, a dear member of the Muskegon community, who left us peacefully on September 23, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on February 17, 1928, in Muskegon, Michigan, Doug was a proud son of Elmer and Augusta (Pearson) Bard, and he lived a life rich in love, adventure, and dedication.

Doug graduated from Muskegon High School in 1946 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri. He enlisted in the army during the Korean War. Because he was one of the few men who could type, he was stationed in a mapping company in Japan. After returning home, Doug joined the family business, Geerpres Wringer, which his father had founded, and he successfully led the company for over 50 years, building lasting relationships with customers around the globe.

Back in Muskegon, Patricia Quick and Doug found each other as they were the only two single people left in town. Impressed with his one match fire building skills, Patricia agreed to marry Doug on September 14, 1956. Together they raised two wonderful daughters, Lisa and Andrea. Partners in life and active in community development, conservation, and business, Doug often said supporting Pat in the creation of House of Travel was the best investment he ever made.

Their cherished cottage on Crystal Lake was the hub for their group of close-knit friends and family where good meals, great fun, and assorted shenanigans were the norm. An avid sports enthusiast, Doug skied until the age 94 and biked until he was 96 years old. He cherished sailing trips around the Great Lakes and the Virgin Islands with Pat and their friends.

Doug was a member of the Muskegon History Club, the Muskegon Country Club, and the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. A genuine world traveler, he visited incredible places including Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, the Galapagos Islands, Vietnam, Alaska, Antarctica, and even the North Pole. He also provided unforgettable memories for his family by funding an African safari.

Doug is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Tom Crady) Bard and Andrea (Skip Prue) Bard; his grandchildren, Samantha (Brian Eldridge) Prue, Eric Prue, Peter (Cora Brown) Crady, and Scott (Laurel Chappell) Crady; very special friend and companion Sylvia Precious; and countless friends whose lives he touched. Along the way he served as a father figure to Mary, Karen, and Kristi. He was preceded in death by his wife Patrica, in 2010 and a brother Herb Bard.

In commemorating Doug's life, let's remember him with smiles and laughter by sharing stories and memories. Always commenting in his later years "I had a Good Life" a celebration breakfast (his favorite meal) will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Muskegon Country Club. BYO your grapefruit spoons!

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Grand Traverse Nature Conservancy.