Douglas Kent Little passed away at 11:10pm Friday February 5, 2016. Doug was born July 24, 1949 to Milo and Wanda (Adams) Little in Kokomo, Indiana. He attended Kokomo and Taylor schools, graduating from Kokomo High School in 1967, where he acquired the nickname Dugan. He then attended Vincennes University. He married Trish Carey on September 5, 1970 at St. Joan of Arc Church in Kokomo. He was employed by Western Electric, but found his true calling at Kokomo Opalescent Glass Company. His sense of humor, outgoing personality, and strong work ethic served him well in his career at KOG. Doug felt fortunate that he was able to work his way up through the ranks, starting as a night watchman, to a ladler, into the office as a sales representative and finally to vice president of sales for the company. He retired from there in 2009 after 35 years of employment. Doug proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, followed by the Naval Reserve for a total of six years. His memberships in local veterans clubs, the American Legion Post 6 and the 40 & 8 Voiture 1103, provided him additional opportunities to serve, volunteer, and spend time with fellow veterans. This comradeship of members offered support and concern throughout Doug’s illness and was very much appreciated. Doug enjoyed playing golf, having started playing as a youngster. He attempted to learn how to play an electric guitar later in life and he fondly became known as “Blue Bernie” to us, eventually shortened to “Bernie”. Music was always one of his loves and listening to it was a favorite pastime. Family became increasingly important to him as our family grew in size with each new generation. His grandbabies and great-grandbabies were naturally drawn to him and a mustached kiss always made them smile.
Doug is survived by his wife of 45 years, Trish (Carey) Little; daughters, Amy Little (Brandon Arnett) Kokomo and Sara Little (Ralph Gillis) Santa Rosa, CA; grandchildren, Mackenzie Little (Brittley Rippetoe) Tahlequah, OK, Jaylen Little and Deztanie Gaines, Kokomo, Piper Gillis and soon to be grandson Ralphie Gillis, Santa Rosa, CA; three great-grandsons R.J., Jett, and Milo; and an extended family of in-laws who loved him as one of their own.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Milo and Wanda Little, a brother, Jerry Little, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Patrick and Ruth Carey, and sister-in-law Maureen Carey Gardner.
Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life to be held at the American Legion Post 6, Kokomo, Indiana on Saturday February 13 from 2:00-5:00pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 6, Kokomo, or the 40 & 8 Voiture 1103, Kokomo.
Karen Smith says
Blessings and peace to the Little family and friends. May God’s comfort, strength and love fill your hearts in the days ahead. Thoughts and prayers surround you.
Ali Buckner says
Amy, so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Sounds like he lived a cherished life. We’re praying for comfort and peace for you and your family. We love you. Ali & Jesse
Susan Rust Todd says
Graduated with Doug in 1967. He was always easy going and pleasant!
He was a really great person and lived his life surrounded by loving family and friends. He will be sorely missed!
It was an honor to know him. Rest in peace Doug.
Linda Reeves says
Sorry for your loss.
Diane Hamilton says
I am so saddened to hear about your loss. Doug was a great man. Our world will be a little less special without him. Your treasured memories will bring you peace. Thinking of all of you with heartfelt thoughts and prayers. Diane Hamilton
Ashley Kalili says
Praying for peace and strength in your hearts and minds. I’m truly sorry for your loss. I love you Little family. Treasure the memories. Keep the family close.
Tamara Kasey Jarrow says
Hugs, prayers and love to all Doug’s family and friends, especially Trish.
This world has lost a unique, fun-loving guy. Heaven has gained with Bernie’s arrival!
Larry Hedges says
Betty & I wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Trish &family Doug will be missed by all who knew him
Georgeann Caine says
Trash and family. We are thinking of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Georgeann and Mike Caine
Norman Crawford says
Brenda and I would like to wish you Trish and your family our sincere condolences and blessings.
Norm&Brenda Crawford
Peggy Ragland Hobson says
I enjoyed knowing Doug when I was a customer of KOG. He was always nice to be around and always helpful. He has been taken much too soon.
Derek B. says
I am sorry for you family’s loss. I met Doug at the 40 & 8 and will remember his humor and personality for years to come.
Wayne Clinton says
Trish and family, Brenda and I are very sorry for your loss. Knowing you and Doug for well into 40 years. I to am a lover of the same rock and music he enjoyed. I can remember times on Market Street I would go and listen to great songs on his real to real player. I had always admired his knowledge of the artists and members of the bands he listened.
Yes it saddens all our hearts of the love everyone has for him, I would like to say Doug is a legend in his on right, a person with a great smile and can’t forget (Hello Wayner). Our prayers are with all of you and may God bliss….
Wayne & Brenda Clinton
Ann Fitz says
My sympathy to you Trish and your family. May God ble
ss you during this difficult time.
Val and kenny titus says
I still remember meeting you and Doug first time at berts. Loved those friday nites with u all!! Trish, we are so sorry for you and your family. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers!!
Oscar Berkshire says
He was one of the good guys.
I know he will be missed.
Patricia Latham says
Amy & family
Sending forth prayers of comfort during this extremely sad time.
Jane Russell says
I only worked at KOG a few years, but I will never forget working with Doug. He had a terrific sense of humor and was such a great guy. I am thankful I had the opportunity to know him, and will always cherish my memories of him. May God bless you all.
Jane Russell
Bob and Susie Abresch says
Many encounters with Doug while I was ‘out and about’ at some of the local establishments back a few years back. As well, he was a class mate of ours … KHS class of 1967. Always had a smile for me whenever we’d meet. The world would be a much better place with more guys like Doug around. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all those lives he touched. Thanks Doug. May you forever rest in peace.