Douglas Elekes

Douglas Elekes, 81, of Nashport, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, lessons learned, and a legacy of love and hard work that will live on for generations.

Born August 28, 1945, Doug attended Frazeysburg High School. On August 1, 1964, he married the love of his life, Judy, beginning a journey together that would span more than 62 years. Together, they built a life rich in love, family, adventure, and countless memories.

Doug was, above all else, a hardworking man. He spent more than 20 years working in the oil fields, including time with Shumaker Drilling and Lothes & Lothes. He also proudly owned and operated Elekes Water Well for many years. Throughout his working life, he drove a concrete truck for Newark Ready Mix and Dresden Concrete, as well as working as a truck driver for D K Manufacturing.

But to say Doug was a hardworking man would be an understatement. He was a man who never truly retired, because to Doug, there was always something that needed fixing, building, or doing. Whether he was tinkering in his garage, working around the property, or riding his Gator to see what needed his attention next, sitting still simply wasn't in his nature. His hands were rarely idle, and his knowledge seemed endless.

Beyond his work, Doug enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, Nascar and traveling. Some of his family's most treasured memories were made during their many beach vacations together. Doug and Judy also enjoyed spending their winters in Florida as snowbirds, making memories and enjoying the sunshine together.

Doug had a personality that was impossible to forget. He never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, anywhere. He always had a story to share, a piece of advice to offer, or a little wisdom to pass along. And if there was a flea market nearby, you could bet Doug would be looking for a bargain — and he wasn't leaving until he knew he'd gotten the best deal.

But of all the things Doug accomplished throughout his life, his greatest pride was his family.

He loved fiercely, worked tirelessly, and led by example. He believed in the value of an honest day's work, the importance of keeping your word, and the satisfaction of doing things the right way. He was a mentor, a teacher, and a source of strength to so many. His lessons weren't always taught with words, but through the way he lived each and every day.

Doug is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Judy Elekes; his four children, Ginger (Virgil Wickham) Sarchet, Valerie (Robert) Krouskoupf, Melanie Dunlap, and Shane (Laurie) Elekes.

He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Tristin (Josh) Baker, Jody (Kelsey) Sarchet, Ashtin (Cade McCullough) McGee, Taylor (Cody Mayle) Wickham, Darcie (Blake Hopper) Dunlap, Tyler (Taylor) Elekes, and Carson Dunlap.

His legacy continues through his thirteen great-grandchildren: Casen, Clayten, Callen, Creeden, and Camden Baker; Dakota, Easton, and Jaxson Sarchet; Kynlie Sheck; Weston, Raylynn, and Carter Elekes; and Harlan Hopper.

Doug is also survived by his brothers, Chuck (Bev) Elekes, Jack (Hilda) Cronin, and Joe Cronin; his sister, Marsha (Dennis) Miller; and his brother-in-law, Doug Border. His in-laws, Keith (Elizabeth) Gause, Kathy Hunter, & Wanda 'Jeannie' Stall. Along with many nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Cronin and Charles Elekes; his sister, Kay Border; father & mother in law, James & Mildred Gause; brother-in-laws, James 'Goose' Gause, Ray 'Bud' Stall, & Don Hunter; aunts & uncles, including a special uncle, Albert; and his beloved four-legged companion, Buffy.

Doug's life was not measured by the number of years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched along the way. He was the kind of man who could fix nearly anything, figure out just about everything, and make a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

The world has lost a hardworking pair of hands, a wealth of knowledge, and a heart that loved his family beyond measure. But the lessons he taught, the stories he told, and the love he gave will never be forgotten.

His work here may be finished, but the legacy he built will carry on in the hands, hearts, and lives of those he leaves behind.

Rest easy, Doug. You've earned your rest.

Friends and family may call from 3:00-6:00 pm on Friday, October 30, 2026, at BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE. No funeral services will be held.

To send a note of condolence, or to order flowers or comfort food: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com , follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551.