Douglas L. Stillings

Douglas Lee Stillings, 78, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Doug was born April 25, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of William and Lois (Ridenour) Stillings. He was a 1966 graduate of Atchison High School in Atchison, KS and received a bachelor's degree in English from Washburn University in 1970, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.

Doug worked at Brosius & Slattery Real Estate in Topeka then served as the media specialist for the City of Topeka Parks & Recreation Department for 26 years before retiring in 2010. He took pride in the contributions he made to facilities and events in Topeka, including exhibits at the Topeka Zoo such as The Gorilla Encounter and Lions Pride exhibit, events at Gage Park including the grand opening of the Carousel in the Park, events at Ward-Meade Park, Railroad Days, Cider Days, and Apple Festival, among others.

Doug married his high school sweetheart, Joyce M. Dimick, on December 4, 1971 in Atchison, Kansas. She survives in Topeka. Other survivors include his son, Nathan Stillings and his wife, Elaine Henry of Topeka; his daughter, Laura Pattavina and her husband, Anthony of Olathe, KS; two grandchildren, Gwendolyn and Dylan; two brothers, Mark Stillings and his wife, Lynn, of Topeka, and Brad Stillings of Topeka.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, David Stillings.

Doug cherished his family and found great joy in being involved in their lives and activities. He was especially proud to support Nathan throughout his Boy Scout journey, including two memorable treks the pair completed at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico and Nathan earning the Eagle Scout Award. He appreciated the opportunity to enjoy nature and loved camping, fishing, hiking, and spending time outdoors. An avid runner, he shared his passion for running with several close friends for decades and completed many races and competitions, including the Hospital Hill Run in Kansas City.

A private graveside service will held be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Topeka.

A celebration of life will be held 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the Kay McFarland Japanese Garden and Venue, 635 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, KS 66606.

Memorial contributions may be made to Jayhawk Area Council Boy Scouts of America, 1020 SE Monroe St., Topeka, KS 66612 or to Friends of the Kaw, P.O. Box 1612, Lawrence, KS 66044.

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