Douglas Salesky 61

Capitola, Ca. Douglas James Salesky passed peacefully at home on March 21, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. He would have turned 62 on July 12. “The Duke” was a well-known local Ironman triathlete and for many years enjoyed swimming, biking, and running with friends in the Santa Cruz area and beyond. He completed countless cycling events and multiple Ironman-distance triathlons including the Canadian Ironman, and the Hawaii Ironman World Championships. Doug grew up in the areas of Portland Oregon and Priest Lake Idaho, and was a lifelong OSU Beavers fan! He attended college in Alaska and worked for a while in the local Goldmines before he became a career-long concrete/construction project supervisor. He oversaw the construction of the current Santa Cruz water treatment facility on Bay Street, along with many other projects in the area.

Doug spent many years visiting the Fountain of Youth Resort and Spa in the Palm Desert, where he eventually purchased a home and retired, spending many of his final months in the warm sun and soothing mineral baths. Doug was a proud father and family man. He is survived by his older brother Dave and his older sister Mary who both reside in the greater Portland area, and by his three children Fletcher, Amy, and Stephanie. They were the love of his life. He was eternally happy to see them grow up into the fine young adults they are today. Doug had a wonderful life and said so repeatedly. He told us all to remember him with nothing but joy in our hearts. He will be missed by many, but not forgotten! A Celebration of Life will be held in memory of Doug at Twin Lakes State Park at the corner of 7th Avenue and E. Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz on Saturday, April 20 from 4 to 7 PM. All who knew him are encouraged to attend.