Douglas R. Campbell

Douglas R. “Doug” Campbell, 71, of Wixom, passed away suddenly on June 23, 2021. He was born on October 5, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan to Russell and Valerie Campbell; the second of their three children. Doug grew up in the south Redford area, two houses down from his future wife, Sharon. His best buddy Keith lived next door and there was always something going on with “The Columbia Street Boys.” He participated in the Christian Service Brigade, that his father led for many years. Doug was also an accomplished water skier and at age 17 he won the National Top Teenage Driving Award.

Doug graduated from Thurston High School in 1968. He was drafted into the U.S. Army and met his life-long friend, Tom Smith. Doug was a specialist, fourth class soldier under General Westmoreland’s command. He and Tom drove heavy tractor trailer convoy missions, supplying ammunition to fire bases throughout Vietnam. Doug served proudly and honorably for his Country.

Following his return to the United States, Doug and Sharon were married on May 8, 1971. Doug and Sharon grew up together from the age of six. They were blessed with three daughters. Doug supported his family doing whatever it took, including working two or three jobs at a time. His mechanical inclination started at the age of two. There wasn’t anything that he could not take apart, fix, and put back together. He was a State Certified Master Mechanic and the first person in Michigan to be certified as an Emergency Vehicle Technician through the National Association of Emergency Vehicle Technicians (NAEVT). In 1996, the NAEVT awarded Doug for his outstanding achievements and abilities in his field. President Clinton honored Doug for his dedication and accomplishments.

Doug was a Firefighter and EMT Specialist. He was on the High Angle Rescue Team, a Certified Fire Inspector, and held the rank of Lieutenant for the Wixom Fire Department. Doug had his own business, “Doug’s Mobile Repair.” He was known as the “Diesel Doctor” and maintained Wixom Fire Department’s fleet of emergency vehicles in addition to surrounding communities. Doug also worked for DTE in many capacities including material transport and equipment repair. Retiring in 2016, he truly was a “Jack of All Trades.”

When not working, Doug enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Known as Papa by his grandchildren, they were the light of his life. He fished with his girls and the grandkids, only when he wasn’t baiting their hooks. He especially enjoyed hunting and ventured on several big game trips with his cousins. He couldn’t wait to go camping and found his “man cave” in his fifth wheel upon his retirement.

Doug is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sharon; daughters Carrie (Bernie) Reaume, Christina (Eric) Novakowski and Carissa Smith; sister, Lynda Martin; grandchildren, Lauren, Megan, and Ryan Rzeszutek, twins-Elyana and Nathan Novakowski, Lillyana and Autumn Smith; brothers-in-law, Harrie Westphal and William (Linda) Brzuchanski; sisters-in-law, Barbara Brzuchanski and Dianne Campbell; also, military comrade and cousin, Terry Laurain, so close to his heart. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

In addition to his parents, Doug was pre-deceased by his brother, David; sister-in-law, Shirley Westphal; his military friend Tom Smith; and childhood friend, Keith Mitchell.

Family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at Noon on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Grace Lutheran Church, 25630 Grand River Avenue, Redford Township, MI 48240.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Doug may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or The Gary Sinise Foundation, P.O. Box 368, Woodland Hills, CA 91365. The foundation was near and dear to Doug’s heart. The Gary Sinise Foundation serves our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities. (www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate/)

Doug loved his Lord and Savior. He was a family man. He was a true Patriot, loved his Country and brothers in arms. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Please share a memory of Doug or condolences with his family at his online guest book below.