Douglas Earle

Douglas Roger Earle was born on December 13, 1942 in Plainwell, MI, the son of Roger ("Dusty") and Cora (Elferink) Earle, and passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 6, 2017 at the age of 74. At the age of two, Douglas lost his father, Roger Earle, in World War II. He was raised by his mother, Cora, Grandpa and Grandma Earle and Auntie Ruth in his younger years, until Cora married William Johnson. Douglas married his high school sweetheart, Elisa Dawn (Mills) Earle on September 7, 1963. They were happily married for 53 years. Douglas had a passion for learning and education. He graduated from Plainwell High School in 1961. He continued on to Michigan State University and obtained his Bachelor's degree in Political Science in 1965. After attending MSU Douglas was hooked on Sparty and had green and white in his blood. Douglas and Dawn then moved to Washington D.C. where Douglas accepted a full ride scholarship to George Washington University Law School, graduating in 1968. After working for a few years for the Federal Government in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) program, Douglas was offered a job opportunity to start the Michigan OSHA (MIOSHA). Douglas worked for the State of Michigan for 28 years, most of those years serving as Director of MIOSHA. Douglas enjoyed many wonderful summers at the family cottage on Gun Lake. After retiring Douglas and Dawn loved to travel and took several vacations to the Panama Canal, Alaska, Oregon, Mexico and went on several cruises. He enjoyed spending time with family and especially his four granddaughters. Douglas was actively involved in many volunteer organizations such as the Lions Club, Sierra Club, the Democratic National Party and Mankind group. Douglas is survived by his wife, Elisa Dawn Earle, his son Eric (Doreen) Earle, and daughter Koren (Trent) Carpenter; his four granddaughters Josie and Kate Earle and Kayla and Marisa Carpenter. Douglas was preceded in death by his father, Roger ("Dusty") Earle, mother, Cora (Elferink), and step-father, William Johnson. Funeral visitation will be held at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 205 E. Washington St., DeWitt, MI on July 12, 2017 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. On Thursday, July 13, 2017, a second visitation will be held from 12:00 - 1:00 pm, funeral service at 1:00 pm followed by a graveside service at 2:00 pm. Douglas' first cousin, Rich Koster, will be officiating the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in Douglas Earle's name to WKAR, Michigan State University Communication Arts & Sciences Bldg.404 Wilson Road Room 212.