Douglas C. Gourlie

MADISON– Douglas C. Gourlie, age 65, died on Friday, June 7, 2013, with the same dignity and courage that he lived his life following a long battle with cancer. With family at his side at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison, Doug left this world with amazing acceptance, grace and serenity. Born in Milwaukee on January 28, 1948 to Bud and Jeanne (Hughes) Gourlie, Doug lived his earliest years in Lynchburg, Virginia before returning to Wisconsin with his family in 1952 where they settled in Green Bay. A 1966 graduate of Green Bay East High School, Doug attended the University of Wisconsin at both Green Bay and Madison where he majored in business and mechanical engineering. With a love for cars since his teen years and with an aptitude for their repair, Doug proudly spent his adult lifetime as a master mechanic in Madison and retired due to a disability 10 years ago. In addition to family gatherings, playing Sheepshead, camping and computing, Doug’s greatest love and passion was for fast-pitch softball that he enjoyed playing as a pitcher in the Madison leagues for the better part of 15 years, following which he coached a women’s fast-pitch softball team for several years. In his final days, Doug recounted with pride and detail specific games and his love for his teammates and those he coached. He was a devoted fan and proud owner of the Green Bay Packers and also loved following University of Wisconsin athletics. He is survived by his siblings, Gwen A. (John) Stevens of Minneapolis; Michael (Angee) Gourlie and Pamela (Howard) Gesbeck of Madison; and nine nephews and one niece. He also leaves behind his great friend, Dan Miller; “Willy” and the boys who were his apartment building neighbors with whom he spent many joyous evenings solving all the world’s problems; and his favorite waitress, Kathy. He was preceded in death by both parents and his sister Sharon J. (Gourlie) Martin. The family extends its utmost appreciation and respect for the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics for their compassionate and professional caring and treatment during Doug’s final years, with a special thanks to Dr. Gregory Hartig, Dr. James Cleary, and the UW Carbone Cancer Center. A Celebration of Doug’s Life for family and friends will be held at The Lussier Family Heritage Center, 3101 Lake Farm Road,Madison, on Tuesday, June 18th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sandwiches and other refreshments will be provided. Memorial contributions may be made in Doug’s name to The UW Carbone Cancer Center through the UW Foundation at www.supportuw.org; or to Agrace HospiceCare Center at www.agrace.org. Yes, Doug, you truly did “put up a good fight.” Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care 7435 University Ave 608-831-6761 www.gundersonfh.com Memorial contributions may be made in Doug’s name to The UW Carbone Cancer Center through the UW Foundation at www.supportuw.org; or to Agrace HospiceCare Center at www.agrace.org. A Celebration of Doug’s Life for family and friends will be held at The Lussier Family Heritage Center, 3101 Lake Farm Road,Madison, on Tuesday, June 18th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.