Gary Eugene Doucha

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Gary Eugene Doucha on May 8th, 2021. Gary was 75 and living in Austin, TX at the time of his death. He left this world peacefully with his family at his side after a lifetime of heart issues and ultimately heart failure. He leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years, Martha (Peters) Doucha; his beloved son, Brian; his adored daughter, Heather and her husband, David; as well as their children Maddie and Brynn - his granddaughters and biggest fans. Gary sadly preceded his siblings, his much loved sisters: DeeDee & her husband Frank Spahos, Jeanie & her husband Bob Lankford, and Cathy Doucha. Gary gained in love an additional 4 sisters-in law: Jean Sweeney, Joyce Wise, Miriam Ford, Anne Wood, and brothers-in law Michael and John Peters. He will be truly missed by his treasured nephews: Mark Spahos, David Spahos, Randy Spahos, Nick Lankford, Chris Lankford, Adam Peters, Orion Peters and cherished nieces, Ashley Conger and Monica Peters. Gary leaves behind a further legacy of family in all their wives, husbands and an additional 13 great-nephews and nieces. This doesn't even begin to touch on the massive amount of precious friends he's loved as family throughout his life as well. It can't be missed that Gary also leaves behind his great love for his furriest child - his co-pilot in life, Bailey, his Yorkie. Gary was born and raised in Antigo, WI on his family's farm. He was the only son to Matthew ("Rudy") and Alvina (Lobbs) Doucha. Just after the fourth grade, Gary and his growing family moved to Beloit, WI. He started Brother Dutton Elementary school and eventually graduated from Beloit Memorial High School in 1964. Some of his favorite memories were working for years during school at the "Pop House", buying his first prized Ford, and endless adventures with his childhood best friend - Denny Craddick. Gary was hired out of high school at Gardner Tool Company and was sent for a 3 year apprenticeship for training at Landis in Waynesboro, PA. He met the love of his life, Martha, almost immediately and they were married soon after. Gary's army reserve unit, the "357th Transport Company", was called up into active duty while in PA and he trained and eventually was deployed to the Vietnam War until 1972. Gary was forever changed by his military experience and few men have more patriotism than he. HIs wife and he moved back to Beloit, WI after his return from the war and raised their two children there. Gary was elevated in his company ultimately to the International Sales Manager, and traveled the world. He was forced into retirement a few years early by disability with his worsening heart condition. His granddaughters births moved him to Austin, TX where he often said his best career as "G-pa" began. Gary lived a life of no regrets and served all others in his life, almost to a fault, until his final days. He was a natural leader and could work a room wherever he went. He loved to care for all those around him - the shirt off his back was never enough. His outgoing, larger than life personality will not be forgotten, nor will his constant jokes and witty one-liners/names. You were lucky if you met Gary, as he made everyone he came into contact with feel like a close personal friend, because to him - you were. Truly his huge smile will join the stars and continue to light up the sky. Gary's final wishes were to be cremated and his family will have a small service in Austin to honor their hero and bless his life in Texas. In July, the family plans to bring Gary's remains to his home in Beloit for a further memorial and celebration of his life with extended family and friends. From there, Gary and his family will travel back to Waynesboro, PA where he will be buried in St. Andrews cemetery with military honors. The summer travel dates will be updated on this website as they are confirmed. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked you consider donating to the Wounded Warriors Project that meant so much to Gary, or the Hospice Austin that made his last days truly beautiful and loving in every way.

Gary Eugene Doucha

January 2, 1946 - May 8, 2021