In Memory of Doug Stuart: A Life of Service and Vision

The following was written by Robin Meneguzzo, Executive Director of the Keweenaw Community Foundation

Doug Stuart, Founder of the Keweenaw Community Foundation.

Our community recently said a final farewell to someone who cared deeply about this region, Doug Stuart. As I sat at his memorial service, I was continually reminded of what a tremendous gift he was to our community. Doug's impact extended far beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, which included active duty in the U.S. Air Force, service in both the Air Force and Navy Reserves, a Ph.D. in higher education and finance, and his role as Director of Institutional Analysis at Michigan Technological University.

What stood out even more was his unwavering dedication to community service. Doug gave generously of his time and talents across a wide range of organizations, serving on boards and committees for the Boy and Girl Scouts, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Kiwanis, Houghton County Parks and Recreation, the Portage Lake United Church Building Committee, the Portage Lake District Library, and as the founder of the Keweenaw Community Foundation.

While his résumé could have easily defined his legacy, it was the spirit in which he lived a life grounded in service to others that truly left an enduring mark. He was deeply devoted to his family, his church, and his community.

Doug believed in the power of collective action and the possibility of a brighter future. A quote shared by his family at the service captured this ethos perfectly: “Never do a vast thing in a half-vast way,” by Jerry Boyd. Doug exemplified this, whether reimagining a university's layout, serving his country, building a place of worship, or establishing a community foundation. He was bold in vision, humble in approach, and steadfast in execution.

As the current Executive Director of the Keweenaw Community Foundation, which just celebrated its 30th anniversary, I feel immense gratitude for Doug’s foresight and commitment to building a permanent resource that serves the evolving needs of our community. The work of building and sustaining a strong, vibrant community is not the task of a single person or organization. It is a collective effort. It requires shared vision, collaboration, trust, and the courage to believe that change is possible.

Together, in honor of Doug and others like him, we can continue this important work for the people and the place we all love.