Douglas Edwin Carlston's Obituary
Douglas Edwin Carlston, age 67, passed away Sunday, October 27, 2024. He was born May 6, 1957 in Muskegon to LaVern and Virginia (Mavis) Carlston and was a lifelong resident. On October 2, 1982, Doug married Mary A. Dexter at St. Joseph Catholic Church. He worked over 45 years as a tool & die maker and retired in 2020. Doug was a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church, the Mona Lake Boat Club, and Lake Michigan Estates Association. Whether you were family, a long-time friend, a neighbor, or someone he just met, Doug was always looking for ways to help others—whether it was shoveling driveways, fixing cars, or cleaning community beaches. He made the most of Lake Michigan’s beauty through sailing, walking, surfing, storm-watching, stargazing, and even watching for UFOs. Doug embraced life by riding his motorcycle, playing hockey, feeding the birds and critters, enjoying bonfire get-togethers, cheering on his favorite sports teams, and spending time laughing and dancing with friends and family. He loved connecting with his daughters and grandkids and was so proud of their achievements. Survivors include his loving wife, Mary; 3 daughters, April (Steve) Scanlon, Amber (Jason) Davey, Alicia (Derrick) Pauwels; 5 grandchildren, Lydia, Claire, Mason, Athena, Hazel; 2 brothers, Bill (Marcie) Carlston, Mark Carlston; 2 brothers-in-law, Jim (Mary Ellen) Dexter, Dan (Lisa) Dexter; 1 sister-in-law, Karen (Bill) Friend; several nieces and nephews; and many long-time friends who meant so much to him. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister-in-law, Jeanne Dexter. Visitation will be held 5-8 PM Monday, November 4, 2024 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444, where a Scripture Service will be held at 5:15 PM with Deacon James J. Schiltz presiding. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church (1110 Dykstra Road, North Muskegon, MI 49445) with Rev. Fr. Godfrey Onyekwere presiding. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the Mass on Tuesday at the church. Interment will be held at Fruitland Township Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Harbor Hospice Foundation or the Big Lake Humane Society. Sign the online guestbook at http://www.sytsemafh.com
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