Daniel Arie Doeleman

Age 93

Dan passed away peacefully on March 11, 2017 with his family by his side. Born in Lake Oswego, Oregon on May 1, 1923 to Goldie Pearl and Cornelius Paul Doeleman, he moved to Spokane as a small child. He graduated from North Central High School in 1942, and later studied Advertising at Whitworth College.

In March 1943, he entered the Army during World War II and was assigned to the 526th Armored Infantry Battalion where he fought in Normandy, advancing to a Squad leader. While home on his first leave of absence, he married his high school sweetheart, and the love of his life, Dorothy (Dottie) Pandelis. They were married for 73 years. He went on to serve in England, Battle of the Bulge, and the Korean Conflict. During his military career he received four battle stars and the Purple Heart. He was also in the Washington National Air Guard, stationed in Alaska from 1951 – 1952.

Dan spent much of his career in sales. He worked for Larsen Swalwell Motor Co. where he received recognition for becoming their top salesman. He moved on to radio broadcasting selling advertising for KNEW Radio Station, which later became the popular Top 40 KJRB. In 1969, he was promoted to General Manager of KJRB, making numerous lifelong friends. He was affectionately known to many as "Danny" and "Mr. KJRB". In 1974, he was named “Ad Person of the Year” by the Advertising and Sales Association of Spokane. The award recipient was chosen by an anonymous committee of the Spokane Chamber of Commerce on the basis of business competence, ethics, creative ability, contributions to the community and demonstrated concern for public understanding of the advertising industry. Dan was the first member of the broadcast industry to receive the award in its 17-year history. He had been a Director of the Spokane Lilac Festival, a Trustee of the Spokane Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Exchange Club, and the Spokane Club. In 1976, he transferred to KJR, the firm's Seattle operation.

Dan was admired, loved and respected by many, from his employees, peers in the business community and most of all, his family. He had a big heart, friendly smile and a huge impact on many people’s lives. His faith in God was such an important part of his life, and the love for his family immense. He was a member of Opportunity Christian Church for many years.

The family would like to extend a very special thanks to the staff at Sunshine Gardens for their wonderful loving care of Dan since June 2014, where he remained the rest of his life after suffering a stroke.

Dan is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy (Dottie), daughters Judy McNett of Tucson, AZ, and Connie (Gary) Challender of Spokane, brothers Frank (Carole), Dave (Cathy) and Nelson (Marilyn), sisters Lena, Goldie, Connie, and Harriet (Roy), two step-grandchildren, four step great-grandchildren, three step great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Hank, Tom, Thys and sisters Rachel and Lucille.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 15, 2017 at 2:00 pm, at Opportunity Christian Church, 708 N. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, WA with a reception to follow.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dan's name to Opportunity Christian Church, 708 N Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, WA 99206