It was early 1989 when I met Doug through Chris. I'd go to their house down in Conroy quite often and hang out with Chris as he and I played a lot of golf together. I'd see Doug from time to time, and even Big Daddy! Doug was a man of few words so it was typically just a simple nod or hi, but never really any conversations.
Doug played golf with us often, however; there was one particular day a few months into my encounters with Doug that stood out and gave me a bit of insight into the man, and would forever be etched in my mind.
We were on our way to play Palisades Golf Club , which was about a 40 minute drive. If I recall correctly, it was Doug, Chris, Myself and Andy. We were all chit chatting and catching up ( and by all, I mean myself, Chris and Andy) About 15 minutes into our drive, Doug had apparently reached the threshold of maximum number of words allowed to penetrate his ears within close quarters.
Doug had not said a word the entire drive so far, yet with one clear and concise request (that was not really a request at all), he said "That's about enough chatter, why don't we all see if we can be quiet for the rest of the drive". And for the next 25 of the longest minutes of any drive , there was quiet indeed!
Not long after that day, I remember making this comment to Chris......." You know, Chris, I don't think your Dad likes me. I've been around you guys for a few months now, and I don't think he has even said two words to me!...... To which Chris promptly and strongly replied...." Oh noooo Brad, If he said two words to you, then that means he DEFINITELY likes you!"
That's when I began to better understand and appreciate this man a few words. He didn't use many, but he used them well! I knew he loved me, because I felt it, and I'm certain he knew I loved him too.
Here is a poem I think partially captures the essence of the man I grew to know, love, and respect!
DOUGLAS WAYNE LEE
He'd pass you by with a quiet grin, Not much to say, but he'd let you in.
For in his eyes, if you looked close, Were the whispers of kindness, gentle and most.
No need for chatter, no need for song, Doug Lee's love was quiet but strong.
He'd lift your spirits with a look or a sigh, And leave you wondering how, and why.
For words, you see, were never his tool, But his love for the world? Oh, that was full.
A hug when you needed, a hand when you fell, Doug Lee's heart spoke louder than words could tell.
So here's to Doug, with his soft-spoken ways, Who loved us all through the quiet of days.
A man of few words, but deep in his soul, He loved us all, and made us whole.