Douglas Croteau

Douglas (Doug) Leon Croteau, 84, a resident of Keene, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, in the comfort of his home with the love of family surrounding him. He was born a son to the late Shirley (Lang) and Leon Croteau on June 16, 1940, in Keene. He attended the local school system and graduated from Marlborough High School, class of 1958, where he was a standout athlete in both baseball and basketball. On May 7, 1960, Douglas exchanged vows with the love of his life, Deborah Waling. They had a lovely evening service at St. James Episcopal Church with family and friends celebrating them. Doug was the proud owner of Doug’s Dogs in Marlborough for over 20 years. He was most known for not just the great food but his kindness and generosity; from adopting a section of RT 101 to donating turkeys to Marlborough Elementary School for several years. Upon his “retirement”, Doug established Muddy Boots Yard Care, providing yard care and snow removal services in Keene and the surrounding towns. He insisted on a “nice and tidy” looking yard and thoroughly enjoyed spending time outside. In his younger years, Doug was a staple in the local softball league and well known for his darn near impossible to hit knuckleball. Later in life Doug found a new passion: running. He ran in numerous Clarence DeMar and Boston Marathons. Doug also enjoyed whiling the time away on his favorite stool in Chuck’s sugarhouse, enjoying the sights, smells and most of all the companionship. Perhaps Doug’s biggest joy was spending time with his family and friends, in particular his 3 grandsons, Peter, Benjamin, and William, with whom even a simple trip to the store or restaurant would provide endless laughter and “words of wisdom”. Doug’s natural ability to connect with others made him a very special person. Doug is predeceased by his sister Linda Davison of Chester, VT and brother Wesley Croteau of Venice, FL. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Deborah Croteau of Keene, daughter, Pamela of Keene, son, Chuck and his wife Denise of Harrisville, grandsons Peter of Carlise, NY, Benjamin and his wife, Savanna of Keene, and William and his fiancé Tess of Keene. He is also survived by his great granddaughter, Adeline, daughter of Ben and Savanna. A graveside service will be at 11am on Saturday, December 14, 2024, in the family lot at Woodland Cemetery, Section 12, Lot 445 (most easily accessed via North Lincoln St. entrance) Keene, NH. 03431. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer's Association | Donate to Fight Alzheimer's Disease. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.

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Douglas Croteau

June 16, 1940 - November 20, 2024