Obituary of Douglas William Truesdell

November 23, 1941 – October 1, 2018

Douglas W. Truesdell.  Age 76 of Lincoln Park

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Beloved husband of Carol Truesdell.  Loving father of Donald (Cyndi) Truesdell, Victoria Haas and David Truesdell.  Dearest grandfather of Joshua, Katelyn, Ashley, Zachary, Shelby and Michael.  Dear brother of Sally (Patrick) Roberts.  Douglas was a United States Army Veteran, serving in Vietnam.  He was also a Scout Leader for 20 years and an active member of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.

Memorial contributions are appreciated to St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 1325 Champaign Road, Lincoln Park, MI  48146.

Family Tribute

Tribute to our Dad.   A life well-lived.

Our Father entered this world November 23rd 1941, one of three children to  Frank and Rose. He grew up in Lincoln Park, served his country in Vietnam for two years, then began his employment at Ford Motor Co.  He married  my mother Carol in1969, and lived in Lincoln Park his whole life.

From an early age I was witness to a man who freely gave of his time, taking on the role of Cub Scout Leader when I was a youngster.  As a family, we camped and traveling to many different states with our trailer club. He was always active in our church and took on different roles and responsibilities over the years.

When I was a teenager he taught me patience, even when I wasn't. Guiding me along my journey to adulthood,  continuing his leading role by taking on Scoutmaster, and  encouraging me to earn my Eagle Scout Rank.

My sister and brother were just as demanding of his time as I, vehicles needing repair, actvities, guidance, discipline, and most of all,  love.

I learned by watching over the years that it takes a special person to step into the roll as a father, especially to a 4 year old boy who was emotionally confused by the absence of his biological father.

I've heard the saying"Any man can be a father, but it takes a special person to be a great dad. "

I would add to that in saying "Being a Father is a responsibility, being a Dad is a privilege"

My happy memories are many, my disappointments few. I can honestly say he was one in a million.

He continued giving of his time, pursuing adult achievements in scouting, training others, and earning his  wood badge awards and Silver Beaver, and finally the highest award an adult can earn in Scouts; the Award of Merit.

Grandchildren came along and he was as ardent of them as his own children. Watching them grow, attending their many activities and doting on them every chance he could.

Camping was an activity he enjoyed his whole life. From tents to trailers, he enjoyed all aspects. Later in his life he enjoyed spending time at Light House Village, an RV resort for camping.  A tradition I have made an effort to keep for my family.

He was admired, respected and loved by everyone who knew him. He was always glad to see you.  He always made you feel welcome,  and made sure to shake your hand or get a kiss on the cheek. His complaints were few if any, I can't recall my father complaining.

In his last years he struggled with illness that slowly robbed him of his quality of life, and even facing this adversity he would always say "Im doing the best I can."

If I had to summarize what I thought of my father, it would be:

A patient and giving man, who valued family and friends.

If I had to describe what he did:

"A life well lived"

~ Donald Truesdell