Douglas Joseph Partch, '59, passed away on December 22, 2023, in La Vista, Nebraska. Lifetime Member.Douglas Joseph Partch Sr. (Doug), age 83, passed away peacefully at his home in LaVista surrounded by family December 22, 2023. He was born on September 29, 1940 in Salina, Kansas to Leo and Beatrice Partch. Doug attended elementary school in St. Peter, Kansas while being raised by his grandparents Joseph and Elizabeth Rome after his mother’s death. He then attended High School at Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska, graduating in 1959. After High School he spent time in the Army and the Army Reserves. He married Glory June Spies in 1961 and they had 3 children, Doug Jr., Julie, and Jay.
Doug learned the barbering trade while at Boys Town and ran and owned Rockbrook Village Barber Shop for 55 years. During those years, Doug and the barber shop supported many barbers and their families. It was a place many gathered for a great haircut, shave, jokes, conversation, and a hot cup of coffee. Many lifelong friendships and relationships grew inside the comfortable and friendly surroundings of his barber shop.
Throughout his life, Doug actively participated in various organizations. He started the Southwest Chapter of Ducks Unlimited with two friends in 1984, and was still active. He was also a member of other hunting and fishing groups. He was a Mason, Shriner, and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He found joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, traveling, golfing, and restoring vehicles he bought at the auto auction. Doug cherished quality time spent with his family, pets (Ingrid, Tessa, and Gracie) and many friends. He especially loved being around all the kids, babies, and great grand babies, and his constant smiles were proof of the love he had for them.
After being widowed, Doug met and married Susan E. Johnson. During their 20 years together they enjoyed many wonderful trips, traveling and cruising Alaska, Hawaii, and the Bahamas. They took vacations with friends to Florida, Colorado, Minnesota, and the Black Hills. They enjoyed camping in the early years, and going to a friend’s cabin in Minnesota. These were wonderful experiences and many fantastic memories were made!
Doug, a dedicated family man is survived by his wife Susan E. Johnson Partch, son Douglas Joseph (DJ) wife Susan, daughter Julie N. Hawbaker, son Jay wife Amy, stepson Kyle Johnson, step daughter Sarah Claussen and Kreg. He leaves behind a legacy of 9 grandchildren and step grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. Doug is also survived by his sister Bonnie Friend and Chester McClellan of Ravenswood, WV. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, and many many friends.
Doug was preceded in death by his wife Glory June Spies Partch, granddaughter Brandi Rose Hawbaker, parents Leo and Beatrice Partch, half brother Lonnie Partch, and his grandparents that raised him Joseph and Elizabeth Rome.
VIGIL SERVICE: Friday, January 5, 2024, at 6pm at the West Center Chapel and Masonic Rites at 7pm by Miloma Lodge #328, AF&AM. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL with Military Honors: Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:30am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 S. 86th St. Omaha, Nebraska. A luncheon will be served after the funeral mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed by the family.
To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service and Mass, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Those wanting to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Toledo Humane Society.