Douglas Edward Deters, 43, formerly of Spring Grove, Minn., passed away in his home in Wasilla, Alaska.
Doug was born with an inquisitive mind which was enhanced by the gifted and talented” program of Spring Grove High School. He graduated from Spring Grove in 1990, then attended Winona State University, where he was nominated for Who’s Who Among College and University Students. His sense of adventure led him to Alaska in 1994. He graduated from the University of Alaska, Anchorage. Nature was a compelling force in Doug’s life. He enjoyed hiking, rock climbing, boating, photography, hunting and especially, his true love, fishing. Doug had a creative side also. He could look at a plain and ordinary object and turn it into a work of art. Doug was a master in the preparation of culinary delights. His interests led him to work for the Army Corps of Engineers, where he was presented the Achievement Medal for Civilian Service by the Department of the Army for the role he played in the Alaska District’s National Missile Defense System Team. Later he found advancement working as a chemist for the Army with a rating of GS12. In 2002, Doug married Jennifer Harris and they had a son, Karsten, Doug’s pride and joy.
A Fallen Limb
A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says “Grieve not for me.” Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. The good life lived while I was strong. Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small. Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls. I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin, until the day comes we’re together again. Author Unknown
Douglas is survived by his son, Karsten Deters; his mother, Mary (Rod) Amundson; his father, Dennis (Tatiana) Deters; his grandmother, Alice Deters; his siblings, Richard, Daniel (Anitra), Friedrich (Aga), Franz (Jessica), and Alexander Deters, Christelle (Sean) Rennie; Ivan (Alexandria) Deters, Anastsia (Eric) Wold, Brian (Karena) Amundson and Robert Amundson; aunts, uncles, cousins and nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by grandfathers, Lloyd Deters and Raymond Fruechte; grandmother, Esther Fruechte; and his sister, Heather Bivona.
Doug lives on in so many memories but is and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
There will be a private memorial service at a later date. Memorials will be directed toward a trust fund for Doug’s son, Karsten.