Larry Cecil Doan

Larry Cecil Doan, 94, of Roseburg, Oregon, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025. He was born on June 2, 1931, in Alturas, California, to Cecil and Margaret Doan. As a young boy, Larry's parents and sisters ran the local grocery store in Fields, Oregon, where his mother served as Postmaster and his father worked as an electrician. After his father's electrical accident, the family moved to Portland, Oregon. Larry attended Benson Polytechnic High School and later Portland State University before proudly joining the U.S. Coast Guard in 1951. He served until 1954, then returned to Portland, where he worked as a draftsman for Iron Firemans. In the late 1950s, Larry moved to California and began work as a draftsman with Lockheed Martin, contributing to gyroscope designs for the military. During this time, he also worked as a dance instructor for the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, sharing his joy of movement and rhythm with others. Larry later joined Aetna Insurance in Berkeley, California, as a safety engineer, where his dedication and leadership earned him a promotion to manager while stationed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He then accepted a position with Smith Kline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, where he found his most rewarding and successful career as a pharmaceutical representative. After returning to California, Larry settled in Fresno, and later Visalia, where he married the love of his life, Berniece Doan, on June 4, 1978. Together they built their forever home and shared a life filled with laughter, friendship, and adventure. They also owned and operated the Visalia Racquet Club, which became a hub of community connection and activity. Larry and Berniece shared a deep passion for traveling the world together. He also enjoyed being an active member of various car clubs, including Porsche and Thunderbird associations. At home, he found joy riding his tractor and tending to the five acres of walnut trees that surrounded their Visalia home. After Berniece's passing, Larry moved to Roseburg, Oregon, to be near his uncle and aunt-a place that held many fond memories for them both. In Roseburg, Larry found peace, wonderful neighbors, and a home that brought him comfort and contentment. Larry is survived by his sons James Black and Kenneth Black; grandchildren Adam Black, Brian Black, Ashley Seaver, Rory Tisher, and Marc Tisher; and his niece Dee Miller. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Berniece Doan, and his parents, Cecil and Margaret Doan. Larry will be remembered for his intelligence, humor, kindness, and gentle spirit. He lived a life marked by service, adventure, and love-a man whose quiet strength and joyful curiosity made a lasting impression on all who knew him. Graveside services will be held 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Monday, November 17th, 2025 at Lindsay-Strathmore Cemetery, 639 S Foothill Ave, Lindsay. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Larry Cecil Doan

June 2, 1931 - October 21, 2025