Douglas Coats, 70

Douglas Bruce Coats, 70, of Whitefish, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 24, 2025. Born on Oct. 25, 1955, in Boise, Idaho, he was the eldest son of Bruce and Geraldine Coats.

Doug is survived by his daughter, Jaclyn (Devon) Berglund, mother, Geraldine Coats, brother, Kevin (Marlyss) Coats, sisters, Darice (Doug) France and Andrea Crowell, three grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Coats. 

After graduating from high school, Doug enlisted in the Air Force in Biloxi, Mississippi at the age of 17, where he went to Air Traffic Control School. He began his career in air traffic control in Anchorage, Alaska in 1979, which eventually took him to Billings, where he retired in 2005.

Doug dearly loved the outdoors and spent countless hours hiking, biking, and traveling cross country on his motorcycle to visit family and friends. He often spoke about his love of hockey and the camaraderie he felt on the ice. Doug cherished his time at the "office," playing hockey, golfing, rowing and fishing. He had a thirst for knowledge on a variety of topics and enjoyed sharing what he learned with others. While living in Alaska, he went on many solo adventures in the wilderness which produced fascinating stories. 

In recent years, he made memories with longtime friend, Darla Wessel, golfing in Arizona, exploring national parks, attending motorcycle rallies, and boating in Montana and Idaho. 

Doug was a man of faith, genuine, kind, loved nature, and lived life to the fullest. He was immensely proud of his daughter Jaclyn and his grandchildren and enjoyed visiting and hearing about their busy lives. Doug's gentle spirit will live on in those who knew and loved him. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.