In honor of the life and memory of Doug Mastel
Doug J. Mastel was born May 29, 1953 in Faith, South Dakota. He was the 3rd of 4 children born to Paul and Varbana Mastel. He married the love of his life, Patti Grass, July 14, 1979. He has two children, son Nathan and daughter Alyssa.
Patti encouraged Doug to study metallurgical engineering at SD School of Mines and Technology. He graduated 1981 and was always a great ambassador for the SD Mines. After graduation, with the help of his brother-in-law, Dr. Alan Baribeau, MD, he started his company Magnum Diamond, later known as Mastel Precision Surgical Instruments. His creativity and genius were shown through his innovative development of surgical instruments, used in the field of ophthalmology. Doug would never compromise quality, which was appreciated by his colleagues and employees (some of whom were with him more than 25 years). Doug was able to share his love for the company with daughter, Alyssa, when she joined the company for 3 years. It was a special time for both of them.
Doug and Patti loved camping with Benny, their well-loved dog. Fishing and hunting were huge passions, which he shared with son, Nathan. They enjoyed many fishing trips together and loved pheasant and big game hunting. One of the highlights of Doug’s life was being with Nathan when he shot his first elk. Doug also taught Nathan the value of hard work and loved to tell the story of Nathan’s lawn mowing days. Doug paid Nathan $1.00 to mow the front yard and $1.00 to mow the backyard. As Nathan grew older, he recognized the backyard was at least twice the size of the front yard and demanded $2.00 for the backyard. Doug still got a bargain!
Doug shared his love of music with Alyssa as she learned to play violin. Being an accomplished pianist, he taught her how to read music. Doug retaught himself trigonometry and calculus to aid her in her studies for admission to SD Mines.
At the tender age of 10, Doug suffered the loss of his father. This immense pain molded him into a deeply compassionate and generous man. Many can tell stories of that compassion and generosity throughout his life. One such story took place at the airport. Doug noticed a total stranger was trying to board an airplane, but was denied entrance because he had no shoes. Without hesitation, Doug gave him the shoes he was wearing. This “new friend” mailed the shoes back to Doug with a note telling him he would never forget that kindness. Doug had the gift of making every person he talked to feel special. He walked the truths of James 1:22-25. His generosity inspired many to follow his example.
Doug was granted his wings on March 20, 2021. Because of his great faith, we know he is in a better place.
Doug is survived by Patti, his wife of 41 years; son, Nathan and daughter, Alyssa (Tony) Krautbauer; sisters, Patricia (Dennis) Lunsford and Paulette (Alan) Baribeau; brother, Dave; and many extended family members.
Doug was dearly loved and will be missed by so many.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rainbow Bible Ranch in Sturgis, South Dakota, Love Inc., or a non-profit of your choice. Thank you for the kindness shown to the family at this time of sadness.