Mr. Douglas Ray Tyson, 72, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at East Lake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 7:00 am following an extended illness. He was born in Elkhart on May 22, 1948 to the late Clyde L. and Charlene M. (McCreary) Tyson.

Doug is survived by his sister, Sue Ann Bradshaw of Elkhart, and his brother Gerald D. (Reba) Tyson of Opp, Alabama. Another brother, Dennis L. Tyson, died serving his country in Vietnam as a United States Marine and precedes Doug in passing. He is also survived by a loving host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

In accordance with his wishes, Doug is to be cremated and buried at Adamsville Cemetery in Michigan in a private service with military honors there at a later date. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family.

Doug reveled at being his own person and marching to the beat of his own drum. He was loving, giving and kind, but preferred keeping to himself much of the time. Regimented and habitual, he was a hard worker who actually kind of liked being scheduled rather than having something new to do each day.

He had a huge heart, loved to go fishing, and enjoyed long walks which helped him to clear his mind. He also just loved to eat and especially enjoyed his sister-in-law Reba's "tater salad". Most would say his biggest moment in life was winning a $10,000 lottery some years back. While many would argue that ten grand isn't that much money and it probably didn't last long, it tickled Doug and that's all that counts!!!

Doug also served faithfully in the United States Air Force during Vietnam. In an interesting and touching sidenote, Doug served as his brother Dennis' military escort and accompanied his remains when they were brought back from Vietnam.