2016 Douglas Michael Church

DOUGLAS MICHAEL CHURCH

Tissue and Eye Donor

Age 43 ~ Terre Haute, IN

Donated on 03/03/2014

at Terre haute Regional Hospital

Honored by americandonorservices.org and vrlden.com

Doug was loved by all who knew him.  Born and raised in southern Indiana, Doug worked as an account manager and was a strong advocate for animal rights.  He was smart, funny and an independent individual who took pride in taking life by the mantle and caring for his four nieces.  When Doug passed away suddenly from a pulmonary embolism, it came as a terrible shock to his family.  Although he will forever be missed, Doug’s family is proud of his selfless decision to become a registered donor.  Both Doug’s musculoskeletal and eye tissue were used to help over 95 recipients from 23 different states and several countries.

Douglas’ Story

Douglas Michael Church was dearly loved by his mom and dad, his two sisters, brother-in-law and a large extended family. He was born on August 1, 1970, growing up in southern Indiana. He attended Indiana State University becoming a computer systems analyst. Doug was an Accounts Manager at Aaron’s Rentals in Terre Haute, when on March 3, 2014, he became ill. Late in the day, his colleagues took him to the hospital, where he died of a pulmonary embolism. Doug had always been healthy, so his passing was a terrible shock for the family.
Doug was a quiet guy, very intelligent, witty with a great sense of humor, an independent individual who took pride in making his own way in life. He was thoughtful and caring, especially when it came to his four nieces, whom he adored. He loved all genres of music and was a great sports fan! He spent many years cheering on the Indianapolis Colts, as a season ticket holder.

Doug was also a dog lover and his best friend, Jason, a black Labrador, was not a good student in obedience school. No matter what, he loved Jason and forgave him his shortcomings in the lack of discipline. Unfortunately, Jason passed away, but Doug’s love for animals made him an advocate for their humane treatment working tirelessly to shut down puppy mills. Memorial monies the family received were given to support humane shelters, to which Doug was a frequent visitor.

Doug was able to donate musculoskeletal and eye tissue. He has helped 95 recipients, from 23 different states and several countries. Doug’s eye tissue helped to restore the vision of two individuals from Indiana, who suffered from eye disease.

The family has come to realize they will forever grieve the loss of their son and miss him. They find a great deal of pride and gratitude that his donations have helped so many people. Doug’s gifts will be part of his legacy.

Doug’s family hopes that others see the difference his contributions have made, and will want to become donors and make a positive impact on the lives of many.