G. Douglas Taipalus

LINCOLN, Mich.— G. Douglas Taipalus, 83, of Greenbush, Mich. and Zephyrhills, Fla., was called home to be with his Lord on May 7, 2008.

Doug was born on December 30, 1924, in Calumet, to John and Senia (Nakkula) Taipalus. He graduated from Calumet High School in 1942, and served faithfully in both the infantry and Air Force during WW II. He went on to receive his BA in Bible and MA in Christian Education.

Pastor Doug served at Greenbush Baptist Church and at Calvary Baptist Church in Mikado where he helped develop a strong youth program. One of the highlights of Pastor Doug’s ministry in Mikado was presenting the live Nativity scene for two weeks each Christmas season. He also served churches in Grand Haven, Mich. and Fort Lauderdale, Fla, and performed missionary work in Mali, Africa and Naples, Italy. He was known for his deep concern for his parishioners and his great sense of humor. Pastor Doug was always active in community affairs, enjoyed carpentry and teaching, as well as playing and coaching hockey.

Surviving are his loving wife, Gloria; sons, Gary Taipalus, James Taipalus, Don (Ginger) Taipalus; daughter, Marlene Sixta; seven grandsons, Erik (Susan) Taipalus, Greg (Katy) Taipalus, Justin Taipalus, Jon Taipalus, Jimmy Taipalus, Ryan Taipalus and Dakotah Sixta; four granddaughters, Donielle Taipalus, Kalle Wyma, Heather Skinner and Kelly Struthers; 10 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Ted (Shirley) Taipalus.

Preceding him in death were his parents, John and Senia Nakkula; the Nakkula half-brothers, Walter, William, Waino, Henry, Paul and Rudolph; and half-sister, Sylvia Bassetti.

The funeral service was held at the Calvary Baptist Church in Mikado, Mich. with Dr. Lloyd Streeter officiating. Burial was at the Mikado Cemetery.