Douglas C. Vas Dias' Obituary
Douglas Carl Vas Dias, of Hainesport, NJ, passed away on April 1st, 2025, at the age of 74.
Born to the late Carl and Ellen (nee Sparks) Vas Dias on August 15th, 1950, in Glen Cove, New York. Doug was the beloved brother of the late Bobbi Townsend (2022), Terri Dauria, Russell Vas Dias, Brian (Kathi) Vas Dias and sister-in-law Linda Vas Dias. Growing up with four siblings, Doug would often play pranks on his siblings that would continue throughout their adult lives. Doug attended Holy Cross High School as the graduating class of 1968. Shortly after graduating high school, Doug met his loving wife, the late Theresa (nee Sauer) (2005). The pair married in 1971 and spent a loving 34 years together traveling, skiing, and spending quality time together until Theresa’s passing.
Doug loved spending time with his family. While he did not have children of his own, he was the fun-loving uncle of Traci (Joe) Buonanno, Travis (Katie) Dauria, Ryan (Magaly) Vas Dias, Laura (John) Riso, and Patrick (Mandy) Dauria. Doug never missed a chance to spend time with his nieces and nephews, he helped many of them throughout their lives by encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves. They spent time together watching his favorite Philadelphia sports teams, especially the Eagles. Doug never missed an Eagles game as his family fondly remembers the times when he would be caught watching the game at family events or leaving early to watch the game. As his nieces and nephews grew up, he was gifted with being the great uncle to many loving great nieces & nephews.
Later in life, Doug reconnected with a friend, his sweetheart, Sally Oteri. The pair spent many years together enjoying each other’s company and sharing their love of travel.
Throughout the years, Doug kept himself busy with his various hobbies. He loved playing the guitar, gardening, and listening to his favorite music. He was a connoisseur of craft beers, collecting many different IPAs and never showed up to a family party without a case. His early job as a Chimney Sweep gave him the loving nickname “Ash”. He had a long, successful career as a respiratory therapist. Doug is a proud United States Army Veteran, who served his country in the Vietnam War.
Doug will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious humor, and selfless nature. Always ready to make others laugh, he was generous and giving, putting others' needs before his own. His warm, genuine smile lit up every room, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Doug’s visitation on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, from 10:00am – 12:00pm, followed by a funeral ceremony at 12:00pm in Givnish Funeral Homes, located at 1200 Rt. 130 N., Cinnaminson, NJ, 08077.
Interment will be held privately.
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