Douglas B. Spoehr

Douglas B. Spoehr, 75, passed away on February 11, 2026, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. Doug was born in Evanston, Illinois, to David and Barbara Spoehr. He often described his life as blessed and full of wealth, not measured in material things, but in what he valued most: a beautiful family, a strong upbringing, a rewarding career, and enduring relationships. Doug enjoyed telling stories of his childhood. He had fond memories of his family, travel, summer camps, mischief with his siblings, and time with his maternal grandmother. He played on the high school football team for three years and was devastated not to receive a letter for his varsity sweater his junior year. After stepping away from organized sports, he took a chance by trying something new, singing and acting, grew his hair long, and was cast as Big Deal in the high school production of West Side Story. That experience became the highlight of his senior year and a lifelong lesson that from crisis can come growth and from adversity can come strength. He graduated from New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and earned his undergraduate degree from Kansas University. After college, he spent two years traveling the country, exploring independence and adventure. His travels took him across the United States before he attended Tulane University Graduate School of Social Work. Doug moved to the Berkshires in 1978 after marrying Nanette Corrao Spoehr. He built a career he was proud of in mental health and integrated health care, beginning at Berkshire Mental Health (now the Brien Center) as a clinician. He later became Clinical Director and then Director of Berkshire Healthworks, with responsibility for the dental clinic, and roles in substance abuse, psychiatry, and grant writing. He was proud of his part in helping launch their integrated health program. His professional life reflected his dedication to helping others, collaboration, and excellence. Doug’s family was his greatest pride. He is survived by his wife, Nanette, his daughters, Elisabeth Lamoureaux (Eric) and Gillian Procopio (Paul), and their families. He was immensely proud of his daughters and all they have accomplished, and he cherished the close relationships he shared with his sons-in-law. Being Papa to Camden and Alaina Lamoureaux and to Nico and Gavin Procopio was one of the greatest joys of his life. He delighted in their stories, their milestones, in holding their hands, and in the simple privilege of watching them grow. Doug is also survived by his brother, Steve Spoehr, and his wife, Leigh; his sister, Virginia Miller; nieces Sarah, Erica, and Lauren; nephews David and Alec; their families; Nanette’s extended family; and several close friends. Doug showed love in tangible ways. He cooked, listened, and asked thoughtful questions. Known for his breakfasts, sage advice, and steady support, he was a critical thinker who deeply cared for his family. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures, a strong cup of coffee, a quiet sunset, and a well-prepared meal shared with loved ones, and he will be remembered for living fully and taking joy in each of these moments. He loved skiing, swimming, hiking, fishing, and traveling. He was also an exceptional gardener and took great pride in the landscape he had created in the backyard. One of his greatest joys was the family’s annual vacation to Sanibel Island, a tradition they cherished for over 40 years, where they enjoyed the sun, sand, and time to refuel after the long winter. Doug was a lifelong sports fan, following Kansas University basketball, the Red Sox, and the Patriots. After retiring, Doug embraced new chapters with determination. He became a certified ski patroller at Jiminy Peak and also worked as a ski instructor at Bousquet Mountain. He enjoyed time on Lake Onota in his pontoon boat. He took daily hikes in Kennedy Park with his loyal companion, Baxter, finding peace on the trails he loved. In 2023, Doug was diagnosed with interstitial lung disease, an illness that impacted the active lifestyle he cherished and ultimately led to his passing. This past year, he also faced esophageal cancer with courage. Even as his world narrowed physically, he approached his final chapter with resilience, dignity, and quiet strength. He remained grateful, even then, for what he would still describe as a blessed and abundant life. His legacy is in the hearts and lives he touched. Funeral Notice: A celebration of life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doug’s memory to the Kennedy Park Fund for trail maintenance and upkeep, or to the Phelps Cancer Center Patient Assistance Fund, in care of the Dwyer Funeral Home.

Douglas B. Spoehr

February 26, 1950 - February 11, 2026