Douglas Robert Little, 89, formerly of Royal Oak, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 9, 2016 at his home in Traverse City surrounded by his loving family.

Douglas was born on September 11, 1926 in Detroit, MI to the late John "Foster" Robert and Jean (Degree) Little. He married Dorothy Ford on January 11, 1946.

Douglas honorably served our country in the United States Navy as a First Class Seaman. During his working years he was a Superintendent in construction and a brick layer by trade, leaving his legacy in the many churches, hospitals, police and fire stations he built in the Metro Detroit area.

Mr. Little retired to the Traverse City area 25 years ago where he enjoyed fishing, gardening, bird watching, woodworking and spending time outdoors. He loved to learn and keep up with current events, and was a big fan of college football season. In his later retirement, he became a devoted care taker for his wife, Dorothy, who struggles with dementia. Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. His loyalty, stories from his past and love for his family will always be cherished and live on.

Predeceasing Douglas are his father and mother John and Jean Little, and brother Richard Little.
Surviving Doug is his wife Dorothy of 70 loving years; children, Paul Little, Janice (George) Underwood, Douglas (Jennifer Strauss) Little, Donald (Julie) Little, Jacqueline (Mark) Benson, Jill (Brian) Riggs; grandchildren, Paul Larson, Chad Underwood, Erin Banton, Christopher and Katie Little, Marne and MacKay Little, Justin and Taylor Benson, Mason Douglas Riggs; 11 great grandchildren; brother Donald (Judy) Little, and many other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral. Funeral Services will take place at 11am on Thursday, July 14, 2016 also at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Deacon Rene Hoenschied will officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or to the American Cancer Society.