Douglas Manso Stuart

Douglas Manso Stuart, 84, passed away peacefully in Bellingham, Washington, on July 31, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was a longtime resident of Port Townsend, Washington, and had also lived in New York City, Redwood Shores, California, and other places throughout his adventurous life.

Doug attended The Lawrenceville School in New Jersey, where he valued his high school years and the friendships he made. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in classical music from Columbia University, followed by a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science from the University of Washington.

As a young man, Doug set out on the open seas, working as a deckhand on a ship bound for Africa. Soon after, he served four years in the United States Marine Corps. In the years that followed, his path was as varied and colorful as the man himself—driving a taxi through the bustling streets of New York City, lending a hand in a health food store, and eventually making his way west to Washington State.

For more than two decades, Doug worked as a laboratory technician at Jefferson General Hospital, where his steady hands and thoughtful nature left a lasting impression on colleagues and patients alike.

Outside of work, Doug pursued life with a deep and abiding passion for learning and the arts. He loved playing classical piano and accordion, singing hymns, practicing yoga, studying calculus and Japanese, and traveling the world. He was a devoted fan of the Seattle Mariners, a connoisseur of whole wheat bread, and never said no to a good glass of carrot juice.

Doug is survived by his son, Nathan, daughter-in-law, Natalie, and his beloved grandchildren, Evan, Lydia, and Samuel, who will carry forward his love for curiosity, music, and life’s simple pleasures.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the compassionate staff at Summit Place Assisted Living in Fairhaven and Whatcom Hospice for their dedicated care and kindness during Doug’s final chapter.

In honor of Doug, no formal service will be held. Instead, take a walk by the sea and remember a man who found beauty in both the grand adventures and the quiet moments in between.