November 29, 1938 - November 14, 2024
In loving memory ~
Doug Karsten, "The Great Telephone Communicator," has ended his cheerful conversations with us. Doug died in his sleep, unexpectedly but peacefully, worry-free, during the wee hours of November 14, 2024.
His quiet passing was in sharp contrast with his life of 86 years — active; adventurous; living in the moment.
Douglas Richard William Karsten was born in beautiful Nakusp, the second of three children to Otto and Betty Karsten.
Doug's sister Shirley was close in age and shared their healthful childhood of natural pleasures, swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking, playing softball. Happily, their two sets of grandparents resided close by. Doug's pals at school became his lifelong friends.
In 1951, Doug and his entire family moved to another beautiful city, Kimberley, where Otto found reliable work with CM+S. Doug's brother Brent was born in 1954. After spending time at McKim High School, Doug, too, found work with CM+S at the Sullivan Mine. He enjoyed the challenge and the camaraderie of working underground and remained for 15 years. As a "sidehustle," he opened a used car lot.
As usual, he got to know everyone in town, got married, and became the father of three kids: Vicky in 1961, Larry in 1964, Glen in 1967.
But Doug was eventually off to another opportunity, this one proving to be 100% suited to his personality. He became a salesman of heavy-duty equipment and vehicles of all kinds for Mack Trucks and others, gleefully burning up every highway in Western Canada.
Doug has lived in Kimberley, Marysville, Cranbrook, Kamloops, Victoria, and his last stop in Castlegar, has given him much contentment. Married for 14 years to Davene Bird, integrating with Davene's family, friends, neighbours, they developed a joyful marriage. His vivacity, loyalty, and generosity will never be forgotten.
In Spring of 2025, we will gather to celebrate Doug's remarkable life. We'll reunite with his three beloved children and their spouses; Stalwart brother Brent, Sharon and family; seven precious grandchildren: Erik, Emma, Vicky, Blair, Crystal, Chelsea, Denver and spouses; six great-grandchildren; as well as Doug's talented nieces and nephews and their families. Times, dates to be announced.
Much gratitude to medical professionals, first responders and Castlegar Funeral Chapel for compassion and care..
For more information and to leave a message of condolence, please see the Castlegar Funeral Chapel website at https://www.castlegarfuneral.com