Douglas “Doc” Grant Harlander passed away surrounded by family on April 29, 2022 at Traditions of Frederic. His 102 years were spent caring for his family, serving his country, being active in the community, dancing, and trouncing people in cribbage and numerous other games.

Doug was born on February 3, 1920 to Andrew and Gertrude Harlander in Ellsworth, Wisconsin. He was a graduate of Ellsworth High School and graduated from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls in 1942. He taught high school mathematics for one year before enlisting in the U.S. Navy during World War II, where he served four years as a Navy Lieutenant. He saw duty in the Mediterranean, European, and Pacific theaters. He survived the sinking of LST 531 during Exercise Tiger, a D-Day practice mission held six weeks prior to the invasion of Normandy that resulted in the loss of over 700 lives. He was awarded a Purple Heart as a result of his experience in Exercise Tiger.

After being discharged from the Navy in 1946, Doug entered the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, graduating in 1950. He married Jeanne O’Brien in St. Paul, MN on August 27, 1949. They moved to Frederic in July of 1950 where Doug practiced dentistry for 37 years. After retiring in 1987, Doug enjoyed traveling, reading, volunteering, fishing, golfing, elderhostel programs, and making things for his grandchildren in his workshop. Doug and Jeanne would celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary before her passing in 2000.

Doug was active in many organizations and elected to several leadership positions including serving as the Treasurer for the American Legion Post 249. He was a member of the American Dental Association, Wisconsin Dental Association, Minnesota Dental Association, Northwest District Dental Society, and President of the Wisconsin Five County District Dental Society. Doug served on the Frederic Village Board for 8 years, the Pilgrim Lutheran Church Board for 6 years, the Frederic Planning Commission, the Frederic Hospital Board for 13 years, and the First American Bank Board for 10 years. Doug and Jeanne were recognized as Frederic Citizens of the Year in 1986.

During high school Doug was given the nickname “Happy”; he continued to be happy to the end of his days, always bringing smiles to everyone around him. In addition to bringing joy to so many, he was known for his competitive spirit and sense of fair play.

Doug is survived by his children, son Brian (Kathie) Harlander, Savannah, Georgia; son Brad (Rebecca) Harlander, Frederic, son John (Heidi) Harlander, St. Cloud, Minnesota, daughter Ann (John) Fitzl, Stanley, Wisconsin, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and siblings.

Services will be held at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Frederic on June 11, 2022. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a service at 11:00. Lunch will follow at the church. Doug will be interned at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Ellsworth, Wisconsin.

The family would like to thank American Legion Post 249, Traditions of Frederic, and St. Croix Hospice for their wonderful care of Doug. In honor of Doug, the family requests that memorials be made to these organizations.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home, and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown.

Last Update: May 03, 2022 11:43 am CDT