Douglas Last

Douglas Allen Last died unexpectedly from injuries sustained in an automobile accident on August 27th 2021.

Doug was born on August 4, 1939, in Minneapolis, MN to Fred and Ethel Last. He was baptized and confirmed at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church Bloomington MN.

He attended the University of Minnesota for Theater and Music education, where he was a member of the U of M Marching Band. With his music training and love of playing as an avocation following his days at the U, his occupational pursuit took him in a different direction. While learning the ropes of the insurance industry he earned his living as a sanitation engineer. He began his career in the insurance industry in 1962.

On June 21, 1987, he was married to Kathleen Hurtig at First Lutheran Church in Hector, MN. They made their home in Prescott, WI for 16 years and in 2003 they moved to his “little bit of heaven” in Spring Valley, WI.

Doug had an unending love of music and participated in a number of instrumental organizations including concert band, big band, jazz band, brass ensemble, symphonic orchestra, circus band, and trombone quartet. Whether in a group or soloing, he and his trombone brought joy to audiences in care centers and assisted living facilities as well.

While his trombone took an occasional breather, you could often find him trying to engage someone in a good game of cribbage. For young or old, his competitive nature was an enticing challenge.

Christmas brought to light yet another side of Doug. His hearty laugh and jolly disposition were a perfect match for the role of Santa for nursery schools, church programs with Santa at the manger, town events and care centers. Bringing delight to children and adults alike, he felt blessed himself to be able to share these precious moments with others.

He earned his nickname “Good Deal Doug” after countless hours of scouring the countryside for garage sales, being drawn into the nearest auction or combing the latest ads for the greatest bargains.

Doug’s closest and dearest Friend, is his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He wasn’t afraid to talk freely about his faith or to ask questions that would help to ease understanding for all. He had an insatiable hunger to study God’s Word and was truly honored to have the opportunity to read scripture for various occasions at church.

Doug will always be remembered for his zest for life, passion for music and love and devotion to his family and for his deep and abiding faith.

Survivors include his wife Kathi, daughter Cathy Chapman, son Tom (Roni) Last, grandchildren Katie (Matt) Welch, David (Cass) Chapman, Sarah (Jeremy) Sutton, Michael (Jaymie) Chapman, Weston (Jess) Last, Steven Last and Devin Last. Great- Grandchildren Patrick, Claire, Emily, Gordon, Annie, Ellie, Cassidy and Freyja, as well as his brothers Fred Last, Ken (Kate) Last, Sister Betty Bollman and brother-in-law Bob Lynch, nieces, nephews and many friends. He was proceeded in death by his parents Fred and Ethel, sister Kathy and sister-in-law Phyllis.

Doug’s Celebration of Life will be held at Shepherd of the Valley Church located at 14107 Hudson Road S, Afton MN on Friday, September 10th at 11:00 a.m. Visitation one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Doug’s honor to the Shriners Children’s Twin Cities would be appreciated. Or those who wish to express sympathy may also consider donating a used instrument or a monetary donation to a school’s music program in honor of Doug for his love of music and band.