Douglas E. Lange, age 72, of Gleason, WI, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Doug was born in Rhinelander, WI, on July 14, 1954. He was a longtime member of the Hodag Sports Club and the Dry Riders Club. Doug was also a certified welder at the Rhinelander Paper Mill, where he dedicated more than 40 years of hard work before retiring.
Doug was an avid outdoorsman and found some of his greatest joy in fishing and hunting. Fishing, especially ice fishing for bluegill, was a favorite pastime. Some of his most memorable adventures were fishing trips to La Crosse and Lake Michigan with his nephew and best friend, Isaak, who was truly the very best gift his sister could have ever given him. Doug shared his love of the outdoors with Isaak, passing along his passion for both fishing and hunting and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Doug harvested many deer throughout his years of hunting and also enjoyed traveling to North Dakota with his buddies for duck hunting trips. The outdoors were more than just a hobby to Doug; they were a way of life and a source of countless friendships, stories, and cherished memories. Chocolate Labs were another important part of Doug’s life. His dogs were his faithful companions, beginning with his best dog ever, Bruno, and continuing with Tuffy and Tramp. Doug also had a love for cars, motorcycles, and anything with an engine. He enjoyed attending car shows and spent many weekends at the Merrill Ice Drags. His most recent project was his 1960s C10 Rat Rod, but his all-time favorite was his 1991 Ultra Classic Harley. That motorcycle led to many adventures and plenty of stories from Sturgis that he was always happy to share. When Doug wasn't outdoors or at a car show, you could often find him in the yard or workshop, “just putzing” with one of his many projects. If something needed to be built, repaired, or figured out, Doug was the person to call. He had a natural ability to make things work and took pride in doing things himself.
Doug faced many obstacles throughout his life, but he never let them define him. He remained positive, determined, and always found a way forward and created a very successful life for himself.
Survivors include his sister, Beth Ann Clapper; and his nephew, Isaak (Ally) Clapper. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carmen (Clapper) Lange; his maternal grandparents, Ray and Delphine Clapper; and his paternal grandparents, Otto and Minnie Lange.
In accordance with wishes, no formal services will be held. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.
