ELKHART — Douglas M. "Doug" Boley, Sr., of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at his home with his family at his side following an extended illness on Friday, June 23, 2017 at 12:30 am.

He was born in Claremore, Oklahoma on March 30, 1942 to the late Clark and Elba (Fant) Boley, Sr. and later married Nannette S. Pletcher in Elkhart on Nov. 25, 1972. She survives at home after 44 wonderful years of marriage.

Also surviving are his children Douglas, Jr. of Elkhart and Paula (Michael) Caurro of Mishawaka; brothers Bill Fant of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, George (Charlene) Boley of Van Buren, Arkansas, John (Gail) Boley of Port Richey, Florida, James (Sue) Boley of San Diego, California and Clark Boley, Jr. of Irving, Texas; sister Janette Taylor of Little Rock, Arkansas and grandchildren Morgan, Nick, Jimmy, Alyssa, Tyler and Addison.

Preceding Doug in death is a daughter, Pamela S. Neal and a brother, Monty Boley.

Doug worked over 18 years as millwright and cabinet maker for Henderson and Crull of Osceola before retiring in the early 1990's. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and listening to Johnny Cash, but the true love of his life was his wife and children, of whom he held in the highest regard. While not being one to boast on personal accolades, it was apparent through his accomplishments that Doug took great pride in everything he did.

He was also an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, and proudly served as a Staff Sergeant with the 25th Infantry Division Armored Calvary for three tours of duty in Vietnam.

While there, Doug received both the Bronze and Silver Star medals for gallantry in action and several Purple Heart medals for wounds received in combat. He was also attached for a brief time to a Special Forces "Green Beret" unit.

Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart is honored to host Doug's Celebration of Life services beginning with a viewing on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 6 - 8 p.m., followed by a funeral service on Wednesday at noon, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m.

The Reverend Dick Herath, a neighbor and good friend of the family will officiate and burial will follow at the Veteran's Section at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart. The US Army Funeral Honor Guard and Elkhart DAV Post 19 will render graveside military honors.

The family has requested that memorial donations may be given to Great Lakes Caring Home Health and Hospice.