Douglas Lindblad

Douglas (Doug) Lindblad of Renton, Washington passed away Thursday, December 22, at 12:45 p.m. due to complications from pancreatic cancer. He bravely fought the disease for more than two years. Born April 1, 1950, a true April Fool's baby, to old-school Scandinavian parents, Richard and Ellen Lindblad, in Seattle, he joined older brother, Don. Dad immigrated from Sweden in 1923, and Mom was the oldest of eight children born to Norwegian immigrant parents. The new family unit was close, including extended family on Mom's side, which helps to explain Doug's love of family. Doug grew up on Mercer Island, where his Dad had moved a recently-purchased excavating business, Ball Construction Company. Dad ran the equipment; Mom handled the books. It was an idyllic environment, being reared on an acre of land with room for all sorts of animals: dogs (four at a time!), cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, raccoons, a flying squirrel, and Doug's favorite (but Mom's least favorite) an iguana living loose in his bedroom! Graduating from Mercer Island High School in 1968, he immediately went to work, first with several contractors, then with a local plumber, marrying the bos...[more]

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daughter. Thus began more than 40 years in the trade as a plumber and pipefitter, working his final years out of Local 32. Doug was good at his job, and over the years was given significant responsibilities by his employers. His knees began to bother him, so he took early retirement at age 62, spending more time with his family and tending his beloved fuchsias and hummingbirds. Doug's greatest legacy is his family, whom he dearly loved. He remained devoted to his girlfriend of 31 years, Karen Anspach, along with his children and grandchildren. Doug leaves behind his two children, Doug Jr. and Jennifer (son-in-law Mike Fo'i) and grandchildren (Jadyn, Chase, & Mitchell). Until the end, he remained truly proud of all their accomplishments. Among others who grieve over his passing are his brother, Don (Chris), and family, along with a number of cousins. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. A funeral service will be held at Evergreen Washelli Tribute Center at 2 pm on Wednesday, January 4th. A brief Graveside Service will follow. You are invited to a reception immediately following internment.