Richard "Dick" Joseph Doughan

Richard “Dick” Doughan, 81, of Waukee, IA, passed away at MercyOne Hospice House in Johnston, IA on May 17, 2020. 

Dick was born in Hancock County, IA on October 8, 1938. He attended community schools in Titonka, IA, earned his bachelor’s degree at Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, IA, and received a master of science in education from Drake University in Des Moines, IA.

Throughout his 43-year career in the Des Moines Public Schools, Dick worked as a science teacher, guidance counselor, coach, athletic and activities director, and mentor to many young people. The early years of Dick’s career were at Harding, Merrill, and Kurtz junior high schools. He spent over 20 years at Hoover High School and completed his rewarding career as the Director of Central Academy for talented and gifted students. After retirement, he became an instructor for the GED and high school diploma program at Des Moines Area Community College.

Dick loved all things sports—playing basketball, tennis, and golf; coaching basketball, baseball, and softball; and watching sports on TV. You could also find him on the sidelines watching his children and grandchildren in action.

Dick enjoyed nature and outdoor activities like birdwatching, fishing, biking, yard work, and gardening. He was an avid reader and liked to relax in his favorite chair while watching TV. Some of Dick’s unique dietary staples were ice cream with crumbled soda crackers, orange juice on cereal, and Diet Pepsi.

Family was very import to Dick. He cherished any visits and special events involving his children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. With his wife, Karen, by his side, he supported many family members through both the challenging and joyful times in their lives.

Dick is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen Doughan; three children, Ryan (Kirstin) Doughan, René (Jeremy Skoda) Larson, and Sonja (Jim) Nelson; seven grandchildren, Kyra, Avery, Kenzie, and Jace Doughan, Soren and Kaya Skoda, and Lex Nelson; and one sibling, Betty (Marvin) Janssen. Dick’s parents, Joseph and Isabel Doughan, and sisters Patricia Murty and Cara Ebersole preceded him in death.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the service will be private. Extended family, friends, and former students are welcome to join the livestream service on Friday, May 22, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. via the Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services Facebook page, or watch the recording anytime thereafter.