Douglas Swanston died peacefully at home on November 30, 2021 after a long battle with cancer, his wife holding his hand. Douglas was born to Thelma and William Swanston in Pensacola Florida, June 8, 1938. The Swanstons were a military family and Douglas grew up living in many different states and countries until his family settled in Battle Creek Michigan. From a very young age, Douglas knew that he wanted to be a Geologist. He received is undergrad degree from Michigan State University, belonged to a Fraternity and met the love of his life Marlene in Ann Arbor Michigan who he married in 1958. Douglas continued his education at Ohio State University, where his son was born. Then his Ph.D from Michigan State. Douglas moved his young family to Hollis Alaska in 1964, and eventually Juneau, a playground for a young Geologist and where his daughter was born. Douglas worked for the U.S Forest service and his career took the family to Corvallis Oregon in 1972. The family spent many summers out in logging camps as he did his work as the soil expert. He was a world-renowned engineering geologist specializing in landslides which led him to work in Pakistan, Japan, and Germany. He was a visiting professor at Oregon State University. Although he had seen the world, his heart always belonged to Southeast Alaska. Douglas took a promotion with the US Forest Service, and moved his family back to Juneau in 1979. He was a scientist for Geological and Glacial Research. He climbed and traveled extensively across the Juneau Ice field. While in Southeast Alaska, he was an avid boater. There were many trips to southeast communities in his boat, but his favorites were the trips he made to Tenakee Springs and his annual trip up the Taku River. Memories that his family and friends who joined him in these adventures will hold dear in their hearts forever. Douglas eventually retired from the US Forest Service at age 60 and migrated to South Central Alaska for a new adventure. He became a partner in BRD consultants LLC and continued working as an engineering geologist expert for the partnership. While living in Wasilla he was still seeking adventures. He owned a cabin in Caswell, dabbled in river boats, and snow machines. Eventually he found his enjoyment in his RV and four wheeler. He and Marlene were out most weekends enjoying Alaskan summers. Douglas was active in the Good Sam Club, Alaska Pioneers, and his home owner’s association until his illness took hold. His life was rich and rewarding, he was known for his beautiful smile and kind gentle soul. Douglas was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is missed. Douglas is survived by his wife of 63 years Marlene Swanston, his daughter Joan McQueen (Curtis) his son Andrew W Swanston (Holly), grandchildren Haley Talbert (Dan), Costin McQueen (Katie), Andrew J Swanston (Heidi), Alex Swanston (Amy), Jennifer Schafer, Matthew Heckler and Chris Lanfear. Great grandchildren Emily Swanston, Dakota Talbert, Nathan and Lucas Swanston and James Schafer. The family will hold a celebration of his life at a future date. Douglas was a regular donator to the animal shelter. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Mat-Su Borough Animal shelter (or the shelter of your choice) 9470 E Chenlyut circle Palmer, Ak 99645 in his memory.