Douglas Paul Semeyn

March 17, 1955 to July 14, 2025

Douglas Paul Semeyn, longtime resident of Estes Park and a devoted 40-year employee of the YMCA of the Rockies, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on July 14, 2025, at the age of 70.

Doug was born March 17, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he grew up surrounded by the love of his parents, Thomas and Dorothy Semeyn, and his brother Steve. He fondly recalled childhood summer camping trips near Lake Michigan and later shared that love with his children.

A youthful fondness for swimming set a course to his future in Estes Park, where he first worked as a seasonal lifeguard for the YMCA of the Rockies in the summer of 1976. The YMCA and Estes Park captured his heart, and he continued to return to work there each summer until finishing graduate school, when he started his first year-round position. It was also here that Doug met his former wife, Kay, and shared the joy of raising their family in this special place.

During his years at the YMCA, Doug made lifelong friends, with many growing to feel like family. He became a welcoming presence for international staff, taking them on adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park and to Rocky Church, and earning nicknames like “Papa Doug.” His kindness, optimism, and love for the YMCA of the Rockies were evident to everyone who knew him.

Doug was also an avid photographer who found joy in capturing the natural beauty of Estes Park. He took and shared thousands of pictures that showcased his deep love for the area and his family.

Affectionately known as “Grandpops” to his grandchildren, he cherished spending time with his children and their families.

In recent years, he loved taking his daughter Ashley to music shows around Estes Park and at the YMCA during her summer visits and beautiful drives through Rocky Mountain National Park.

His other children, Lauren and David, along with their spouses and his three grandchildren, were fortunate to share many wonderful days with him in Estes Park shortly before his passing.

Doug’s absence will be deeply felt, and his legacy of kindness, generosity, and connection to others will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of life service will be held in Hyde Chapel at the YMCA of the Rockies at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, followed by a casual YMCA-style cookout reception at the Upper Cookout. All are welcome to attend either or both events.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations to the African Children’s Mission, where his son David serves as executive director, or the YMCA of the Rockies International Employee Fund with “international programs” designation.