August 4, 1970 - March 29, 2021
Doug was a loyal and dedicated person who had a happy childhood and blossomed into a handsome young man. He joined the Navy after high school and served his country aboard the Aircraft Carrier “USS Independence”. He was stationed in Japan (where he met his future wife Akiko) until his ship was sent to the Persian Gulf during the war.
After his tour, Doug returned home to Colorado and began working for American Furniture Warehouse where over the course of the next 27 years, he worked his way up from a delivery driver to warehouse manager. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, racing his Red Mazda RX7, as well as his remote control cars and planes.
Sadly, in Doug’s mid to late 30’s, he began to slowly lose his lung capacity and was diagnosed with a genetic disorder known as Alpha One. As a result of this illness, he was placed on the national transplant list and after about 3.5 years was finally notified that a set of lungs were being donated to him. On February 20, 2014, he received a double lung transplant that blessed him with an additional 7 years of life. Over the course of those years, he was able to enjoy all of the hobbies and activities that he was unable to participate in during his extensive illness.
He didn’t waste any time and purchased a plot of land near Fairplay, CO, where he ultimately built a small cabin from the ground up. He spent many days laboring to create a peaceful/comfortable space for his family to come and enjoy. He also spent time in Fort Morgan, CO at his brother Mike’s ranch where he enjoyed riding ATV’s and target shooting.
Doug looked forward to family reunions and trips to Mexico and Hawaii. He loved spending time with his family playing games and sports. He continued to work until January 2021 when he decided to retire. Unfortunately, he contracted a virus that put him in the hospital at the beginning of March 2021 and ultimately took his life on March 29, 2021. Doug was ever thankful to Donor Alliance for his new lungs, and in the end, became a donor himself.
Doug was a happy, funny, smart but private person who is already missed so very much.
God-speed Doug. We will see you again someday in heaven. Until then, we will cherish you in our hearts and memories.
Doug was born to Larry K. Hankins and Judith E. Hankins (Johnson). He is survived by both of his parents; his brothers Michael and Todd; and 7 nieces and nephews.
Visitation Information
Date: Thursday, April 8, 2021
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Rundus Funeral Home
1998 W. 10th Ave
Broomfield, CO 80020
Rundus highly values our families, friends and community. All are welcome to come by Rundus and visit with the family, however, note that masks will be required.
