Douglass A. “Doug” Ilten

Age 94, of Lansing, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022.  He was born on January 5, 1928 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Marvin and Marcella (Emery) Ilten.  He was a dedicated husband, partner, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who cherished his time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Esther; and brother, Ted.  He is survived by his devoted partner of 20 years, Elsie Leisure; daughters, Debra (Richard) Ruelle and Christie (John Warvel) Ilten; grandchildren, Miya (Tim) Warvel, Michael Ruelle and Amy Turko; and great-grandchildren, Brandy and Karley Warvel, Jackson and Jenna Turko.

He graduated in 1946 from Sexton High School, attended Michigan State University, after which he served in the Navy in Hawaii during World War II.  He worked for many years at Federal Drop Forge starting as a draftsman and retiring as Vice President of Engineering.  He enjoyed hunting with his dogs, boating, fishing, landscaping, and loved being outdoors.  In retirement he spent many hours building and flying radio controlled planes and was a member of C.A.R.D.S. of Lansing. He also built replicas of historical ships such as Cutty Sark and The San Felipe.  He was a very strong independent man who was always there for us.  He will be dearly missed.

Cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, Greater Lansing Food Bank or an organization of your choice in memory of Doug. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.