Douglas Joseph Saez
COOKS — Douglas Joseph Saez of Cooks, Mich. passed away on February 29, 2024, at the age of 47. Doug was born in Manistique, Michigan on June 11, 1976 at 6:11 p.m. to his loving parents, John Joseph Saez and Norma Joanne (LaBute) Saez. Doug attended St. Patrick’s School in Carlton, Michigan. He graduated from Jefferson High School in Monroe, Michigan.
He was a part of the Local 169 Boilermakers for 26 years, where he managed to make a family of friends and coworkers. His kind heart and wild mind were loved by many. He pushed the boundaries of life every single day, headstrong and passionate about everything he did. Never was he afraid to challenge the flow, having lived his life to the fullest in every single moment. The outdoors was a place he found comfort in, the wildlife and animals in general regarded him as a kind soul, never was there an animal who didn’t love him.
Each day he thought of his family, the love for his parents and siblings was unsurmountable. There was never a day he didn’t speak about the love he felt for Norma and John Saez of Garden; his brothers, Josh Saez (Lauren Fleagle, Wyatt, and Cooper) of Garden, and Jeremy who is with him in their paradise. His love didn’t stop there, it always was outstretched to Michael Saez (Julie) of Big Rapids, Mich., Shellie Saez-Wilson of Phoenix, Ariz., Vicki Saez of Plymouth, Mich., Jennifer Beyer (Schuyler McFall), and Jordan (Gwen) Lucero (Donald, Dacoda, and Dylan Lucero). Not to mention the pure adoration for his grandmothers, Joanne LaBute and Ethel Eva Harbenski, both of Garden. His large heart leaves so many names to write; Joe Saez, Bruce Harbenski (Travis and Dustin Holmes), Steven Harbenski (Collin and Shea), Todd (Heidi) LaBute, Bruce LaBute, Terry Dudzic, and Carmen (Nathan) Gembel (Erica, Emily, Gary Sedenquist) were all cherished uncles and aunts of his. Not to mention the many cousins, nephews, and nieces he left behind, but still held so much love for.
Jessica R. Saez was the love of his life, though they butted heads there was never a doubt from either of them that their love ran strong. They built a beautiful life together in the 29 years they had, soulmates rather than just lovers. Quantum Entanglement will never let them be apart, they were one in the same, he loved her with all his heart.
Left behind to carry on his legacy are his three daughters, Aleatha Rose Saez (Devin Jensen), Kayley Joe Saez, and Myah Stephenie Saez. Each of his daughters carries a part of him with them; Aleatha has his love for animals, Kayley has his big heart, and Myah has his strong headed determination. All three of his daughters cherished him dearly and will miss and mourn him for the rest of their living days.
Doug is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Norman Thomas LaBute and Joseph L. Harbenski; birthfather, Douglas Joseph Harbenski; brother, Jeremy Saez; aunt, Cindy Holmes, and cousin, Zachary Holmes. May he rest well with all of the people he mourned every single day of his life.
A visitation for Doug will take place on March 7 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Fausett Family Funeral Homes in Garden, MI. A memorial service will begin at 3 p.m. with Pastor Greg Williams officiating.
Memorial donations may be directed to the family for future designation.
Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.