Douglas B. Dill

There was no greater joy in the life of Doug Dill than being surrounded by the family he loved. A hard working man, Doug was a good provider and did his best to offer his family a good life. He also liked to have fun with an occasional trip to the casino, watching sports, and enjoying memorable vacations which were enjoyed by all. Lovingly missed, Doug will be long remembered by those who knew and loved him. Although conservative in nature, the decade of the 1950s sculpted the culture of America. From music to movies, art and media, to beloved comic strips and cartoons, households were introduced to a whole new way of life. With manufacturing and home construction on the rise, the economy boomed as the suburban dream was being realized. Yet nestled in the rural community of Hart, Michigan, it was a time of celebration for Ronald and Beverly (Straley) Dill when on September 23, 1950, they welcomed the birth of their son, Douglas B. Dill into their arms. Although born in Hart, Doug's family in time relocated to Fruitport Township, Michigan where Doug was raised alongside his siblings, Ronald, Dennis, Craig, Sue, Kathy, and Laurie. Sadly, his brother Craig died when he was quite young. Doug's father supported their family working as a core maker in manufacturing while his mother was a busy homemaker and worked at Punches Grocery Store. From an early age, Doug loved baseball. He played in little league before playing on organized teams into high school and beyond. During his youth and throughout his adulthood, Doug shared many adventures with his longtime pals, Bill Alder and Don Rhoades. He attended Beach Elementary and Junior High Schools before graduating from Fruitport High School in 1968. Following high school, Doug went on to further his education at Muskegon Business School for the next two years. While growing up in Fruitport, Doug was longtime friends with his neighbor, Marcia Turpin. Before long a romance developed and the young couple was married. During their marriage, they shared the love of two wonderful daughters. Denise Lynn came along in 1970, and Jolene Marie completed their family in 1974. Even though his marriage to Marcia came to an end, Doug was grateful for his daughters whom he loved dearly. When Doug had the opportunity to become the owner and operator of Terry Lee's Convenience Store, he jumped at the chance to be in business for himself. Although the hours were long and there was much to running a business, he enjoyed it just the same. And little did Doug know that he would come to find his life's companion through this very endeavor. Single mother Betty Lou Steinman worked for Doug at the store, and he loved her smile and infectious laughter right from the start. Before long, a mutual attraction unfolded and they began dating. Deeply in love, they found in one another their heart's desire, and on July 26, 1985 they shared vows of marriage in Fruitport where they made their home. Doug took on Betty Lou's two sons, Danny Joe and Robert Lee from her previous marriage as his own. Doug taught his children the value of hard work, and to achieve what they desired, it took a lot of hard work. He stressed the self satisfaction in doing so was well worth the effort. He also supported them in all their activities, and lovingly encouraged them along life's way. Eventually, Doug sold the store and landed a postion working as a machinist at various companies. Prior to retiring in 2010, he worked as a CNC operator at Asimco Camshaft Tech. Doug continued his love for baseball. He and Betty Lou were loyal Detroit Tiger's fans, and Lions football, too. Doug absolutely loved watching his grandchildren play at her softball games. In his free time, he enjoyed bowling, basketball, and gambling. With his love for swimming, Doug's pools at home went from small to much larger. He also loved swimming at the beach. Although he really liked his new DVD player, Doug was a "little" electronically challenged and had to have help in setting it up. One of his lovable canine companions could always be found by his side over the years, most notably Mickey and Buddy Boy. Traveling was a large part of Doug's enjoyment in life, especially in the company of family. They traveled to Florida, and even spent Christmas of 2009 and 2010 thoroughly enjoying the beaches. Doug and Betty Lou involved their family in all they did. They loved to go boating, and gambling many times in Las Vegas was the best. They spent a memorable vacation with those they loved on a beautiful Carribean cruise. It was a devastating time for Doug when his beloved Betty Lou sadly passed away in 2009. He relied on the love and support of family, which saw him through. More than anything, Doug was all about family. He always looked forward to the special times they shared during their Wednesday and Saturday lunches together. It proved to be a great time and a chance to get caught up. Although anytime Doug spent with his family was simply the best of times for him. In fact, Doug made it a point to host the yearly family reunions held at his home. Doug was always keeping himself busy. He was a man of his word, and kept any plans he had made right up until the end. A devoted husband, dedicated father and grandfather, Doug Dill was also a well loved brother and loyal friend. He knew the value of hard work, and was always willing to lend a hand. Above all, he was very family oriented, and never missed the opportunity to share the joys of life with those he loved and held close to his heart. Never to be forgotten, Doug will be deeply missed and remembered in the days ahead. Mr. Douglas B. Dill, age 63, of Fruitport, passed away Monday, June 23, 2014. SURVIVORS: Daughters, Denise Dill of Fruitport, Jolene (Jerry) Jones of Delaware; seven grandchildren; stepsons, Danny (Sarah) Alviar of Muskegon, Robert (Barb) Alviar of Fruitport; brother, Dennis (Jan) Dill of Muskegon; sisters, Sue (Jim) Stark of Fruitport, Kathy (Greg) Griswold of Muskegon, Laurie (Chris) Lineberry of Muskegon; sister-in-law, Janice Dill of Fruitport; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Lou in 2009; granddaughter, Danielle Alviar; brothers, Ronald and Craig; and nephew, Craig Griswold. MEMORIAL SERVICE: Friday, June 27, 2014, 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior to the service at the Clock Chapel - Muskegon with Pastor Frank Zenobia III officiating. MEMORIAL: Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary's Hospital. To share a favorite memory or photo of Doug and to sign his online guest book, please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com