Douglas E. "Soapy" Lather

Douglas E. Lather "Soapy" was born on July 26, 1944. He was born to John D and Esta Lather in Toledo, Ohio. On Monday, April 21 2025, the Lord called him home. He was a graduate of Libby High School and from there, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served on the USS Marias from 1962-1966 as a cook. This is where he got the nickname Soapy from his CO.

Soapy worked at Toledo machining till he was laid off. From there, he went to All Star vending until the day they closed where he learned the craft of covering pool tables and continued covering them for many years even into retirement. He also worked at Cane's Potato Chips until they closed. Doug finished his career at Nickles Bakery where he retired to fulfill his years as a proud teamster union member. During those years, he held many union positions at both Cane’s and Nickles Bakery.

Soapy was a member of many Clubs including Amvets, VFW Post 3338, Fraternal Order of Eagles 2562 and The Fourteenth Ward. He was an avid camper for 20+ years at Country Campground where he enjoyed horseshoes and socializing with many friends. Soapy loved his family time especially at the holiday’s where he could play euchre and forty. He also loved to fish.

He is preceded in death by his parents John D and Esta Lather; sister, Carol (Harold) Mock; his brother, Gary (Eva) Lather. He is survived by his wife Debra Lather, his sons John D. (Sandy) Lather, Thomas (Christine) Lather; daughters Michelle Lather and Esta Lather; grandchildren Ashley, Kierstyn, Skyelar, Domaja, Dominic, Deandre, Jameshia, Edward, Ian and Heather and 3 great grandchildren. Also surviving is a host of extended family and friends that will truly miss him.

Visitation for Soapy will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 from 4-7pm. at the Newcome Funeral home, SW Chapel,4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo. A service celebrating Soapy’s life will be held immediately following visitation at 7:00 PM.