Douglas Edward Origer

On Sunday, July 24th, 2022, our captain, Douglas Edward Origer, left his earthly harbor surrounded by family and friends. He was guided along his journey by his favorite Jimmy Buffet songs and stories of a life well lived. Heidi, his beloved dog is once again by his side. We rest assured, knowing that he will be there to collect us at the dock when it is our turn. But we’d better be on time….

Doug was born in Estherville, Iowa, on July 7th, 1961, where he spent his younger years. Doug embarked on his early high school years and his assent into manhood in Grinnell, Iowa, where he excelled in football, baseball and golf, and ignited his passion for the water and all things boats. In the Fall of ’77, Doug would move to Fairmont, MN, where he would meet the love of his life, Vana, and continue his life of hard work and selfless devotion. He graduated from Fairmont High in 1979 before beginning his long career of managing people and helping those in need along the way.

Vana and Doug were married in 1985 and had three beautiful children: Chelsey, Callie, and David. Doug made the dreams and passions of his family possible, while embracing them as his own. In just a short time after his little girls discovered a love for horses, Doug was traveling the state with a stubborn horse in tow, a tightknit family testing his patience alongside him, and an ever-expanding extended family not far behind. As the seasons changed, Doug would quickly change from horse dad to sports enthusiast. Chasing buses as far as necessary, and even coming along for the ride (Vegas Baby!) all to support his son’s passion for football and guide him as he grew.

Doug was very driven; he strived to accomplish every goal and strategic plan he had envisioned from a young age. He worked as the Vice President of North Central Food Systems for over 30 years. As the tides changed, he took adversity in stride and seamlessly switched gears to become the owner of Montana Radiator Works and 1800- Radiator in Spokane, Washington since 2006. Through it all, supporting his family and friends was paramount, even in the face of self-sacrifice.

Doug was the definition of “actions speak louder than words.” He was strong in his opinions and honest with his delivery. Anyone who truly knew him can recall a time where they were intimidated by him. It didn’t take long to realize, however, that his bark was much bigger than his bite. He was the most generous and kind man that anyone could hope to meet. His desire to share with those around us, so they could enjoy alongside us was evident to many.  There was nothing he would not do for a loved one or a stranger less fortunate, alike.

His personal passion and love of boating and the lake was shared with his wife, Vana. There was nothing that he looked forward to more than those weekends spent on the water with her, and the many friends and family members who joined. He loved all those near to him with his entire heart, forming unique bonds with each person. We speak for many when we say our most cherished memories of Doug — our father, husband, friend, or brother — were spent at Yellowtail, around a fire, hanging your legs off the end of a dock, or slowly cruising on the water with the soft sounds of Jimmy Buffet playing in the background.

Doug would always watch approaching storms in awe, a pastime that he shared with his granddaughter, Everly. Always cautious of their ability, but never afraid, he understood that all storms come to pass. Even in their potential to cause great damage and pain, there is always beauty and a grand display of power. When you see a storm approaching, embrace your loved ones, seek support, but understand that there is beauty in all things, and that hard times will come to pass. When you see the storm approaching, think of Doug, embrace the beauty, and allow the storm to pass. Doug left us on Sunday night to a chorus of rain and thunder, a storm that he would have watched intently with a smile on his face. A fitting sendoff for the man we all loved so much.

Doug is preceded by his father Paul Origer. He is survived by his mother, Jean; his loving wife, Vana; daughters, Chelsey, and Doug’s granddaughter, Everly, Callie and her loving partner, Sean; and his son, David, with his wife Sadie. Doug is also survived by brothers, Mike and Tony, and his sister Kelly.

Please join us Friday, August 5th, 1 p.m., at King of Glory Church, 4125 Grand Ave., for a service, with reception at Yellowstone Country Club to follow.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to donate to a cause you and Doug may have shared. A few that he was passionate about include Toys for Tots, St. Jude, and Conservation groups (Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, etc.).