Douglas (Doug) Dennis Firkus, of Petaluma, CA, age 67, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness at Kaiser Hospital, San Rafael, CA on Tuesday, February 27. He was born on August 15, 1950 in Stevens Point the son of Bernadette and Dennis Firkus.

Doug graduated from Pacelli High School in 1968. He then attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and began working in Milwaukee as a Premium Auditor for Fireman’s Fund. He then was promoted to Audit Manager and transferred to the Maryland Branch. In 1979, Doug was promoted to be a Commercial Group Manager in San Rafael, CA and completed twenty-four years of service for Fireman’s Fund.

Doug married his sweetheart, Suezanne (Sue) Gollonik on May 26, 1973 in Stevens Point. Doug and Sue celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on a cruise to Alaska. Enjoying their retirement, they went on another cruise to Europe in 2016. Annually, they would return each August to Stevens Point, to spend time with family and friends. They especially enjoyed the many dinner outings with his Mom, brother Tom and Marie. One of Doug’s favorite events was golfing with his friend Norbert Tepp and his son Mike, and his special group of friends. A fond memory for Doug was coming to celebrate his mother’s (Bernie) 90th birthday. Doug was able to tell jokes to everyone, and had a great smile and laugh that he constantly shared. He was a Master Griller for friends and family, and made sure to bring back Wisconsin’s cheese to share in California every year.

One of Doug’s passions was being a Boy Scout Leader, going on numerous camping trips with his sons, Nick and Mike. Another passion was his years of involvement with the Elks #901 of Petaluma serving as Head Trustee for seven years. After his retirement, Doug continued to be active with his Tax Preparation Service.

Doug is survived by his Mother, Bernadette Firkus, Stevens Point; his wife, Suezanne (Sue) Firkus; their sons Nicholas Firkus, Watsonville, CA, Michael Firkus, Pasadena, CA, and his brother, Tom (Marie) Firkus, Stevens Point. He was preceded in death by his father Dennis.

A memorial service to honor Doug’s life will be at St. Vincent De Paul Church, Petaluma, CA on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. Parent-Sorenson Funeral is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting any gifts be in the form of donations go to: Mariposa Wellness Center: 10 Car Street, Watsonville, CA 95076.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Doug’s hometown at 10:30 AM on Saturday April 28, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish. Rev. Thomas Lindner will officiate. Friends and relatives will gather to share memories prior to Mass starting at 9:30 AM at the church.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.shudafuneral.com