Douglas Philip Gracey, also known as Chief, passed away on Wednesday, November 5th, to a short battle with cancer.

Doug was born in Hartford, Connecticut on October 4, 1944. He had two sisters and one brother.

Doug served his country as a member of the United States Navy where he flew off air carriers in the Vietnam War. He served as a sonar technician on submarine hunter aircraft, such as the Grumman S-2 Tracker. His life in the navy and life after honorable discharge from the navy was full of interesting experiences and career paths that made for many stories and took him all over including: Hawaii, California, Florida, and eventually Idaho.

He moved to Idaho to support his youngest sister Deborah "Debbi". They became "roomies" and Doug was her caregiver during her battle with cancer.

Doug loved aviation and volunteered as a docent at the Legacy Flight Museum in Rexburg, Idaho. While volunteering there, he met his granddaughter, Mallory Johnson.

He loved to share stories and experiences. You could likely find him at Applebees sitting at the bar, drinking his coffee, and sharing stories with whomever would take the time to listen. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his granddaughter Mallory Johnson, grandson-in-law Derick Johnson, and his great-granddaughter whom he endearingly called "Boo Boo," as well as many friends who he considered family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 17, 2025 at 9am MT at the Legacy Flight Museum in Rexburg: 400 Airport Rd Rexburg, ID 83440

A zoom option will be available for individuals who cannot make it in person.