Douglas Jay Drenth

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas Jay Drenth on to glory with Jesus. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Esther and Frederick Drenth and his sister. Pamela Joy (Drenth) Van Weelden. Doug is survived by his wife, Dawn (Spitters) Drenth. They were blessed with two children: Justin (Stephanie) Drenth (children Tanner, Tyler, Alivia and Annabelle) and Lindsey (Travis) Pawlowski (children Greyson and Drake). Doug is also survived by his siblings Jeanne Drenth, Terri (Bill) Veldman and Randall Drenth, along with several nephews and nieces. Also surviving is his brother-in-law, Dennis (Nancy) Spitters.

Doug was born on March 24,1955 to Esther (Rhem) and Frederick Drenth. Doug loved growing up in Parchment with his many cousins and friends. Throughout high school, he worked at Holly’s Grill (in the State Theatre Building). After attending WMU, he bought Holly’s Grill when the previous owner retired. He was 21 at the time. Doug later opened Russ’ on Sprinkle Road, and after that he went back to Holly’s Grill (renaming it to Doug’s Place).

Later on, Doug became a financial adviser -- a job he loved. Doug was an exceptional “people person” and loved lending a hand to others. He was an incredible husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. He truly loved his grandsons and enjoyed cheering them on at games and hanging out with them. He was Papa to Tanner Drenth, Tyler Drenth, Greyson Pawlowski and Drake Pawlowski, whose hearts are also broken.

Doug was the third generation to enjoy Wall Lake, and some referred to him as the “Wall Lake Mayor.” He loved boat rides on his pontoon.

Doug genuinely loved his family and friends. He was a man of faith who loved the Lord. If you knew Doug, you experienced what a special person he was. Losing him has left an incredible void in our lives.

Visitation will be on Monday, May 11 from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the funeral home. We hope you can gather with us to say our goodbyes and give condolences to Doug’s family. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

While visiting Doug’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49080 (269-685-5881).