Douglas Ruthven York

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Family was at the heart of Douglas’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to Parkinson's research.
Michael J. Fox Foundation

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Douglas Ruthven York, born on February 18, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, in Winter Garden, Florida. He was 79 years old.

Douglas pursued his education at Western Michigan University, where he earned a BA in Education and developed the foundations for a lifetime of personal and professional accomplishment. His commitment to business remained constant throughout his time at CR&D Industries, where he worked alongside his father and sister, eventually assuming leadership of the business after his father retired. After a few other business ventures, Douglas moved to Florida in 2006. He found a career as a Walt Disney World Bus Driver, where he enjoyed helping vacationers travel around the resort. He retired from Disney in 2017.

Married on December 19, 1970, he was a loving, dedicated, and cherished husband for over 55 years. Douglas was a devoted father, a caring brother, and a loyal friend. Throughout his life, he embodied integrity, kindness, and dedication to those he loved. His family, growing up in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, instilled in him strong values that shaped the man he would become. He loved to travel and would bring his family along on summer road trips across the US for his work trips. He was proud to say that he visited all 50 states, Hawaii being the last, which he travelled to with his wife, Judy, in October of 2023.

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Those who grieve his passing also celebrate the privilege of having known and loved him.

Family was at the heart of Douglas’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy York, who stood beside him through every joy and challenge. His son, Douglas (Paula) York II, his daughter, Melanie (Robert, Jr.) Miller, and his daughter-in-law, Karen York, each carry forward his legacy of warmth, resilience, compassion, and stubbornness. Douglas is also mourned by his brother, Raymond (Jean) York, brother-in-law, Lynn Edmonds, and sister-in-law, Edie Bruske, who shared countless memories with him and an unbreakable bond. His grandchildren, Lily, Allen, Bobby III, and Amaryllis, will greatly miss their 'Pappy', as will his many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Douglas’s life was marked by both celebration and loss. He was predeceased by his son, Benjamin York, his father, Rea York, his mother, Katy York, and his sister, Connie Edmonds. Their memories remained close to Douglas’s heart, guiding him and providing comfort throughout his life.

Douglas left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was extremely proud of his children and the lives they created. At times impatient and stubborn, his sense of humor, steadfastness, and generosity touched not only his family but also his circle of friends and all those whose lives intersected with his. Whether imparting hard-won wisdom, offering guidance, or providing quiet support, he always found a way to lift others.

A respectful remembrance of Douglas’s life and legacy serves as a reminder of the profound impact one life can have. Those who grieve his passing also celebrate the privilege of having known and loved him.

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In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to Parkinson's research.
Michael J. Fox Foundation