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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Doug
Ferlin
September 5, 1947 – February 15, 2025
Doug Ferlin, 77, of Greenville SC, husband of Diana (Peterson) departed to be with his Lord and Savior on 15 February 2025. He was loved and cherished by his family, friends and neighbors. Doug had an infectious smile and laugh. He also had an adventurous nature.
Doug is the son of Frank and Betty Ferlin. He is the father to his beloved twin daughters, Darla Davis, husband Eric, and Denise Hopson, husband Mark. He adored his three grandchildren who affectionately called him "Pa", David Hopson, Alissa Davis, Jake Davis and his great grandson, Levi Hopson. Doug is also survived by his sister, Karen Ensworth. He was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Leonard.
Upon graduation from Conneaut Lake High School, Doug attended the University Of Pittsburgh. He enlisted in the USAF where he earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. His Air Force career spanned many fields and specialties. At Reese AFB, Lubbock, TX, he earned his pilot's wings. Doug was assigned as an instructor pilot at Reese AFB and also Randolph AFB, San Antonio, TX. He retired at the Pentagon as the Chief of Presidential Flight Support. Doug traveled to all 50 states and over 50 countries during the Reagan/Bush administration. After his military service he continued various career paths and obtained an Associate's degree as a Medical Lab Technologist. Doug described himself as a "lifelong learner." His final position was in education as a high school math teacher.
Doug lived a boyhood dream while hunting, fishing and canoeing in the PA Conneaut Marsh. His Volkswagen Bug took him and his friends on many harrowing adventures. Doug transitioned to a larger vehicle after retirement and drove the family RV where he and Diana and their two very spoiled Yorkies, DC and PJ, enjoyed the outdoors. Eventually they settled into a log home in the mountains of SC where they lived near a state park and hiked with DC and PJ.
Doug made an impact helping and spending time with people. As foster parents in TX, VA and SC, they welcomed one SC teenager into their home. Doug drove him to school every day ensuring that he earned a HS diploma. Paul proudly declared that he was the first in his family to obtain a HS diploma.
There is a hole in many hearts from the impact Doug made in so many lives. Doug loved life and he loved people. He had a very special bond with his favorite pets, DC and PJ. He transferred that love to neighbors' dogs who stopped at the Ferlin's for a treat from Doug. Honor Doug with a big hug for your loved ones and offer a special treat for your dog as well.
A private service will be held at later date at The McDougald Funeral Home with burial at the M.J. "Dolly" Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, SC. The service will be officiated by Pastor Larry Wilson, of The Mill Church, the Ferlin's church home for many years. Memorial service information will be announced at a later date.
Doug prayed for protection over the police, military, firemen and first responders. The family requests no flowers, but contributions in his honor are welcomed to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and to the Touched by ALS organization. Doug suffered from ALS and received tremendous love and support from ALS organizations and Crescent Hospice and their amazing support teams and staff.
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