Hemlock, NY: At age 72, Doug passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at Strong Memorial Hospital surrounded by family and friends. He was born on January 12, 1951, to his late parents, Donald and Eva (Strlecki) Dulen. Doug was a proud father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughters; Shanna (Tyler) Heun, Trina (Josh) Dulen, and his sons; Michael Dulen, Douglas (Alicia) Dulen Jr., and Brian Dulen. He has four grandchildren; Lucas, Dagny, Fitzgerald Heun and Douglas E. Dulen, III.
Doug earned his undergraduate degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology. In 1978, Doug moved to Honeoye. The early 1980’s defined Doug’s commitment to the hamlet of Honeoye, where he began investing in the community through small business ownership. Doug knew the importance of investing in Honeoye, its people and how this would build the community. His first small business in the township was the Valley Inn in the early 1980’s. In 1988, he opened Honeoye Auto Parts which has been in business for 35 years.
Doug’s passion for dirt racing was actualized in 1985 when he began sponsoring drivers with Land of Legends. This past race season, he saw Doug Jr. on the dirt track for his inaugural season. The pride and emotion radiated on Doug’s face for his son who is carrying out his passion.
Doug was an avid outdoorsman who loved his property, hunting and travel. Those who knew him best appreciated his sense of humor and work hard, play hard lifestyle. This loss is felt greatly by his family, friends, race community and entire Honeoye community. His contagious smile, humor and prankster antics will be missed by all who loved him.
Honoring Doug’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
To send condolences or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Doug will be missed on my trips to the parts store. I will miss his sarcasm and promise to always give Bear Bear snuggles when he greets me on my visits. Doug and Alicia, I am sorry for your loss and appreciate how well your Dad has always treated Matt, Dad and myself. He was a good man.
Mother’s maiden name was Strzelecki.
Doug was a great guy. Whether interfacing with him professionally or personally. You always got his best. Doug was real, not a fake. What you saw was what you got. When you interfaced with him, he made you feel that you were important to him. And you were. He appreciated your business and your friendship. If he was sitting at his desk and you stopped to talk with him. He stopped what he was doing and engaged with you. Whenever I brought him almonds, he would smile, and say “thank you Eddie” and you knew he meant it and was sincere about. I will miss you my friend. You have earned that extra victory lap.
Eddie
Always a gentleman and so helpful. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.