Douglas Burreson

Douglas Burreson, 74, of Missoula, Montana, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, surrounded by his family in the city he called home his entire life.

Born on October 3, 1950, in Missoula, Doug was an extremely proud fourth generation Montanan with strong ties to his Norwegian heritage. He was a part of the first graduating class at Hellgate High School, then went on to attend Montana State University, where he began developing the skills that would shape his lifelong career in cartography and land surveying.

Doug began his professional life with Sorenson Survey Company before joining the Missoula County GIS Department, where he dedicated over 40 years of service. His work helped shape the infrastructure of the community he loved, and he was respected not only for his expertise but also for his integrity and work ethic.

In 1995, Doug met the love of his life, Melodee, at the Western Montana Fair in the school display building. They married in 1999, and together on Ford St., built a life grounded in faith, family, and mutual devotion. Through their union, they lovingly blended their families and raised seven children, creating a home filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love.

Doug was a man of quiet but deep faith. He was baptized, confirmed, and raised in St. Paul Lutheran Church, which remained a spiritual home to him throughout his life. His values were shaped by his upbringing in the church and were evident in the way he treated others—with patience, humility, and kindness. He remained an active and faithful member of the congregation into his final years.

Doug was an avid hunter and fisherman who found peace and purpose in nature. He passed on his love for the outdoors to his children and grandchildren, and was proud of the legacy he imparted. Many summers were filled with camping at Seeley Lake, floating, and cabin time with his family. One of his favorite outdoor adventures was seeing the geese migration at Freeze Out Lake.

 Music was another lifelong passion—he loved playing guitar and sharing songs with family and friends. A proud supporter of Griz Football, Saturdays in the fall were often spent cheering on his team. But his greatest joy was time spent with his family, especially his ten beloved grandchildren who lit up his world.

Above all, Doug cherished his role as a father and grandfather. Doug was endlessly proud of his children: Melissa (Alessandro) Silva of Seattle, WA; Skyler (Michelle) Burreson of Seattle, WA; Alex (Kolleen) Burreson of Missoula, MT; Garrett (Andrew) Burreson of Seattle, WA; Tanner (Shauna) Smith of Salem, OR; Cory Smith of Spokane, WA; and Ally Smith of Missoula, MT.

He is also survived by his loving wife Melodee, his sisters Rae (Dave) Price of Henderson, NV, and Lynn (Darrell) Puthoff of Spokane, WA, his sister in law Heidi (Bill) Beller of Mesa, AZ, brother in law John (Sheri) Singer of Maxville, MT, as well as his treasured grandchildren Laurence & Gabrielle Silva of Seattle, WA, Chase & Brooklyn Burreson of Seattle, WA, Keegan, Fischer, and Carter Burreson of Missoula, and Pacey, Trevor, and Tate Smith of Salem, OR.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Sr. and Ellie Burreson, and his beloved in-laws, Dale and Joan Singer.

A special thanks goes out to the many medical professionals and first responders who helped Doug and Melodee navigate the last three years. Doug’s kindness, humility, deep faith, and gentle spirit touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church at 11:00 AM in Missoula. Following the service will be a procession out to the columbarium in the courtyard, and a lunch reception to follow downstairs in the Fellowship room.

Doug’s wish was for charitable donations to go towards the St. Paul Music Program.