Michael G. “Swede” Douglas

A memorial visitation for Michael G. Douglas, best known as “Swede”, 64, Lawrence will be held from 5-7pm, Friday, March 4, 2016 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. No formal service will be held per Swede’s request. He passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at his home.

Swede was born April 4, 1951 in Salina, KS the son of Gene and Eleanor (Oborg) Douglas. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Diane (Johnson) Douglas and their two sons Walker and fiancé, Sarah Shaffer, Lawrence, KS; Cole, Oklahoma City, OK; Sarah’s two sons Elliott and Silas; one sister, Susan Baird and husband, Todd, Salina, KS; two brothers, Steve Douglas and wife, Debbie, Assaria, KS, Roger Douglas and partner, Abdo Dagher, Vancouver, BC; and several nieces, nephews, and great nieces, nephews.

He graduated from Southeast Saline High School as a standout athlete. He then attended the University of Kansas where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Business. Swede was also a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. After graduation he became an IRS Agent where he served 37 years until he retired in 2010.

Swede was a member of the Lawrence Country Club for 36 years, where he served as a two-term Board President, and two-term Board Treasurer. He was an avid golfer and spent much of his time enjoying the game with his buddies. Including an annual trip for over 30 years to Lake Tahoe, and several other golfing adventures with his best pals. He was also the “appointed” Treasurer for many of the bets placed on the golf course because he was a trustworthy man with high integrity. Swede also helped organize fundraising efforts through golf events to help benefit Free State Athletics as well as the spirit squads. He enjoyed his time as the Chair for the Free State Football Team breakfast from 2000-2004. He was an avid chef at home and loved cooking dinner for the family and for various other gatherings like tailgates, team dinners, and watch parties.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in his name to Center for Advanced Heart Care – KU Med, The American Heart Association, or the Kansas Athletics Williams Education Fund and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary.