Douglas VanHam

Douglas Stephen VanHam, 62, of Missoula, passed away on Monday, July 5th, 2021 at his home, of natural causes. Douglas was born on March 3rd,1959 in Joliet, IL. to Frederick and Elizabeth VanHam. As a young man he lived, grew up and was educated in New Lenox, IL. Douglas joined the United States Marine Corp in 1977 and spent four years serving active duty and two years in the reserves. Douglas loved martial arts. He became a black belt in Kenpo` in while living in Aurora, Colorado, where he not only took instruction from his sensei Fred Pleis but started teaching kids martial arts. The kids called him Mr. Doug. Douglas was also a carpenter and a jack of all trades. There was no job too big for him. Douglas lived in various places. He lived a while in Florida then moved to Pennsylvania and on to Colorado, which he called home. Douglas then moved to Missoula, Montana where he lived out the rest of his days. He loved the mountains, the great outdoors, fishing, hiking and camping. He also loved his music and life. Douglas was a loving brother, and he took great care of his loving family. He is survived by four brothers and their families; Thomas VanHam & wife Deborah of Rock Hill, SC. , Raymond VanHam of Rock Hill, SC. , John VanHam & wife Joleen of Joliet, IL. , Michael VanHam & wife Laura of Plainfield, IL. and a sister Mary Ellen of Justice, AZ. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews. Burial will be at the Abe Lincoln Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Elwood, IL.