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CEDAR FALLS, IA – Major (Retired) Douglas Ralph Kangas, 80, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on October 4, 2026.
Douglas was born August 14, 1946 in Ishpeming, Michigan to Lauri and Jean (Hendrickson) Kangas. He graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1964 and completed his bachelor's degree at Campbell University (North Carolina). Doug was drafted into the Army, earning a Purple Heart during the Vietnam War. He was a proud veteran serving 20+ years in various locations across the United States as well as Vietnam, Korea, and Germany.
Following his service, he was employed at the University of Northern Iowa and Tanger Outlet Mall. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Ishpeming. Doug was an Elks member, life member of the VFW, and active with the Panther Scholarship Club. He had previously spent many years volunteering with the Boy Scouts and serving as a sports official.
Doug loved sports as an avid Green Bay Packers and Detroit Tigers fan. Doug's goal of seeing a baseball game in all 30 Major League parks was accomplished the day after he turned 80. He loved to travel around our great country and the world and "occasionally" visited a casino or golf course along the way.
When Doug wasn't off on the next adventure with his beloved wife, he was a devoted grandfather to his five grandchildren. He knew how to make people feel comfortable, had a generous spirit in all things, and could talk to anyone about any topic for hours. He was the rock-solid foundation for his family, beginning with his brother and sister, continuing with his beloved, and lasting through his grandchildren. He gave his grandchildren the space to simply be, and they were spoiled beyond means. And as grandkids, we knew, we never left Grandpa's house hungry.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Christie (Method) Kangas; sons: Christopher (Marcia) and Tim (Amy); grandchildren: Keely (Lincoln) Schaftner, Haley Kangas (Kevin Ogaard), Linnea Kangas, Matthew Kangas, Joe Kangas; great-granddaughters: Lucille Schaftner, Violet Schaftner; sister, Barbara (James) Racine; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents and brother, Dale (Jeannie) Kangas.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Summer 2027 with interment in the Ishpeming Cemetery.
Doug's memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.