Douglas Wayne "Doug" Elsten, Jr. , age 54 of Elwood, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Ascension - St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis after a brief illness and numerous health challenges.  He was born April 9, 1971 in Elwood, the son of Douglas W. Elsten, Sr. and Barbara J. (Marcrum) Elsten.  Doug attended both Frankton and Elwood schools with the class of 1990.  He was the beloved companion of Catherine "Cathy" Washburn who he was with for the past 12 years.  Doug was an accomplished installer for Create-A-Space in Indianapolis where he enjoyed working alongside his brother, Danny.

Doug truly loved spending time outdoors – fishing, hunting, camping, and gardening.  He was an avid sports fan and loved cheering on I.U. teams and playing men's softball for many years.  Doug was an excellent bowler and could be found bowling on numerous teams at both Lucky Strike and Wells Lanes in Elwood.  Doug was honored to be inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame in 2024.  He also enjoyed listening to country music and spending time with his family.  Doug never knew a stranger and was friendly to everyone he met along life's way.  His family remembers him as a person with a big heart who would help anyone in need.  Doug's legacy will live on in his family and the memories they will have forever.

Doug's family includes his significant other, Cathy Washburn of Elwood; 3 children, Casandra Elsten of Elwood, Cherisa Elsten of Frankton, and Douglas W. Elsten, III of Frankton; 4 bonus children, Nicole (Seth) Standifer of Elwood, Samantha (Charles) Fultz of Elwood, Andrew Lions of Michigan, and Kevin Rae of Frankton; brother, Danny (Charity) Elsten of Elwood; sister, Dana Purkey of Elwood; 2 grandchildren, Isabella Elsten and Leeya Elsten; 7 bonus grandchildren, Autumn, Isabella, Madyson, Raylin, Charlotte, Paisley, and Parker; 5 nieces and nephews, Jordan, Bryant, Raechel, Justice, and Will; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.  Doug was preceded in death by both his parents and a special friend, Michelle House.

A funeral service celebrating Doug's life will be held at 2 pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Jeremy Newman officiating.  Burial will follow in the K. of P. – I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Frankton next to his parents.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am to 2 pm prior to the funeral on Tuesday at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.