| Graduation Year | Class of 1963 |
| Date of Birth | Mar 28, 1944 |
| Date of Passing | Mar 19, 2022 |
| About | Douglas Stanke Obituary Douglas Eugene Stanke "Gator", age 77 went to meet his heavenly father March 19th at North Florida Regional Medical Center. Born in Charlotte, Michigan to Alvin and Beulah Stanke he spent most of his youth in the area around East Lansing. Excelling in sports, he graduated Haslett H.S. Class of 1963. The Viking guard received a varsity letter all four years. He was also awarded Ingham County All-League for 2 years and Detroit Free Press All State. He attended Ferris State College in Big Rapids, MI and worked for Oldsmobile in experimental engineering. He owned and trained standard bred horses and traveled, with his stable, to various harness race tracks and fairs. Moving to Ft. Lauderdale, FL, in the late 60s, he met his wife, Karen Walters. They built his business in construction and roofing - Stanwall Roofing Co. In 1979 they moved to Lake City, FL where he worked at the University of Florida as Supervisor, over roofing maintenance of the campus, until he retired to his farm. He loved raising and training horses, bird dogs and homing pigeons, which he raced along with his former track coach, Ed Townsend. He was an avid lover of sports, athletes, his coaches and the University of Florida Gators, where he got his nickname. He was inducted into the Greater Lansing area sports Hall of Fame, July 2015, along with his 1960 undefeated Haslett H.S. Football team. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Beulah "Judy" Stanke and grandparents, Albert and Eunice Stanke. He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Karen Stanke, 3 sisters; Kaye Stewart (Paul) of Tawas City, Mi, Deborah Benjamin of Boca Raton, FL and Susan Brunger (Rob) of Williamston, MI. Several aunts, uncles, cousins, numerous faithful friends, his hunting dog, "Buddy" and family dog "Sparky". He belonged to the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. There are no arrangements at this time. A memorial will be held at a later date. Forever remembered for his personality, wit, spirit and drive. He loved people and life. Donations can be made, in his memory, to: Haslett Athletic Dept., Haslett High School, 5450 Marsh Rd. Haslett, MI 48840. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. Published by Lake City Reporter on Apr. 7, 2022. |
| Events | class of 1963, passed away at his home in Fl surrounded by family. Doug was All League in Football and outstanding in track. Coaches Stolz And Townsend were his life time idols. |
