Douglas James Armbruster

Douglas James Armbruster age 59, died unexpectedly on Friday morning, February 10, 2023 in his rural Napoleon home. 

His Legacy… Doug was born November 10, 1963 to James L. and Kay (Watkins) Armbruster in Napoleon.  He graduated from Napoleon High School in 1982.  He graduated with his bachelor’s degree from the Defiance College and his master’s from the Eastern New Mexico University. He worked for the Defiance Library.   Doug was a journalist by trade.  He worked for different newspapers including the Farmland News.  In the mid 90’s, he moved to Kansas.  He was an instructor at the Coffeyville Community College. In 2008 he became the managing editor at the Coffeyville Journal.  He was a staff writer and editor for the Independence Daily Reporter and Salina Journal.  He moved “home” in 2017 and filled in as a substitute administrative assistant at St. John UCC.  Doug was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ and the Holgate Lions Club.  Doug liked to listen to all genres of music…loud.  He was an avid sports enthusiast, especially with the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Detroit Tigers.

His Family… He is survived by his loving mother and care giver Kay; sister, Debra (Jeffry) Stevenson, Napoleon; nephew and nieces: Adam Stevenson, Kathleen (Andrew) Borck and Abigail Stevenson; and great nieces: Natalie, Jordyn and Adalynn Borck.  Doug was preceded in death by his father on February 28, 2020.

His Farewell Services… Friends will be received in the Zachrich Family Funeral Home, 114 William Street, Holgate on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 from 3-7:00 pm and one hour before the church service.  The Celebration of Doug’s life will be on Thursday in St. John’s United Church of Christ, Holgate at 11:00 am with Reverend David Voll officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Doug’s memory can be made to St. John’s UCC, Holgate Lion’s Club or a charity of your choice.  

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