of Chelsea, Michigan, age 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at his home in Chelsea with his family in attendance.
Doug was born October 13, 1935, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Calvin Douglas & Clara May (Kendall) Stevens. On December 10, 1965, Doug married Janet Ruth Van Tassel in Troy, Michigan, and she survives. Additionally, he is survived by his daughter Dena (Gary) Potter of Chelsea, and daughter Debbie Stevens of Illinois. Doug was the eldest of 6 siblings. He is predeceased by his parents, his brothers Charles Stevens and Gerald Stevens, and sister Barbara Curl. Sisters Joan (Dale) Willis and Judy Robinson survive.
In the 1950s, Doug served 8 years in the US Marine Corps. He was stationed in California at the Marine Corps Air Station El Toro where he “kept ‘em flyin’” as an engine mechanic. He developed his tool and die skills in Chicago, and his work eventually brought him back to Michigan where he settled at his home in Chelsea in 1976. Doug owned and operated S&S Tool Company, and when he was ready to move on to his next adventure, he sold the property and building to the Covenant Church. He then worked at Dana Corporation for many years and made lifelong friends. He eventually retired from Sensors, Inc., in Saline.
Doug always remarked that he was busier in retirement than he had been while working full time, and he did not slow down. Doug was a lifelong beekeeper and regular participant at the Waterloo Farms Pioneer Day, where he sold honey every fall. He shared his beekeeping knowledge by teaching anyone in the area who wanted to learn. Additionally, Doug managed the Chelsea Fair Grounds for several years and enjoyed meeting people who would bring vehicles in for winter storage. Along with this role, he volunteered with the Make-A-Wish and One Helluva Ride events, and always enjoyed meeting the dogs and participants at the Flyball competitions. Doug loved cutting and splitting firewood, gardening, farming, and repairing farm equipment. He was an amateur photographer who enjoyed taking photos of his cats, his bees, and the wildlife he treasured. His property was in bloom with flowers every spring, and he planted hundreds upon hundreds of trees.
Due to his longevity, he experienced loss including 3 siblings and several dear friends, but he kept his positivity. He enjoyed exercising and socializing at the Chelsea Wellness Center for many years. During Covid, he had a challenging time because he couldn’t see his friends as much as he would have preferred. He was a very social individual who enjoyed being around people and making new acquaintances. Doug was a member of the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253.
At Doug’s request, cremation has taken place, and no public services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to Barn Sanctuary of Chelsea or Best Friends Animal Society.
You can use the form below to share a memory or leave a public message for Doug's family. Please allow 24 hours for us to review and post your comment.
Comments