Douglas Charles Michels, 72, passed away April 24, 2024, at Brauns Terrace in Greenville, IL. He was born November 26, 1951; the son of Charles and Elaine (Fields) Michels.

From an early age Doug participated in and was a decorated Special Olympian; as a young man he placed in swimming and later on in life received many medals as a bowler. If it were up to Doug, he would have been a horse jockey or worked in some way with horses on an everyday basis. Later, he would take a job at Fayco and work in their workshop.

After graduating from the School for the Deaf, Doug spent many years living with his father in Collinsville, Illinois. During this time Charles and Doug were a part of many organizations most notably but not limited to the Ainad Shrine Center, Collinsville Shrine Club and VFW, Kahokian Memorial Post 5691. If you were ever a resident of Collinsville, there's a good chance you saw them walking in a parade or helping serve treats at the Italian Fest.

After moving to Brauns Terrace in 2003, Doug remained active until his final days. He continued to participate in several events each year with his father until his passing in 2018. Doug also came home for many holidays each year with his Uncle Larry and Aunt Kathy through 2021. He grew to love baseball and remained a lifelong fan of horse racing.

Doug is survived by his uncle Larry K. Eads; cousins Andrew and Devon Eads and their sons Colin Eads and Jack Eads; cousins Paul Buskirk and Donald Buskirk, and his extended family of caregivers and friends at Brauns Terrace.

Doug is preceded in death by his father and mother Charles and Elaine Michels; aunts Kathleen J. Eads, Myrna Michels, and Dorthea Buskirk; Cousin Charles Buskirk and niece Jamie Lynn Schmidt.

The Family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Rusty, Kathy, Kaitlynn, Kenny, and to the nurses of Vitas Hospice for their care and compassion in Doug's final days.

Memorial donations may be made to Tri-Cities Area Association for Handicapped, Inc.