Douglas "Doug" Stuart Galinski

Douglas “Doug” S. Galinski, age 82, of Coon Rapids, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, surrounded by his family. The Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at GracePoint Church in New Brighton. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Doug was born on July 28, 1943, in Detroit, MI. He grew up in Duluth and graduated from Morgan Park High School in 1961. Doug earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin–Superior in 1967 and later received his Master’s Degree from St. Thomas University. He was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Betty Nickila, on June 10, 1967, at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in Duluth. They later moved to Fridley, where Doug—affectionately known as “Mr. G”—worked as an elementary teacher in the Fridley School District from 1968 to 2001. Even years after retirement, former students would greet Doug with genuine affection, a reflection of the lasting impact he had on their lives.

Doug was a Godly man with a strong faith, which was ignited in 1983 at a Christian retreat weekend called Cursillo. He was a member of GracePoint Church in New Brighton and grew in his faith through participating in Bible Study Fellowship for many years.

Throughout his life, Doug ran numerous marathons and enjoyed fishing on Lake Superior, including trips to Isle Royale with friends and family. He and Betty enjoyed going out to eat with friends, watching Jeopardy and reality shows together, and making great memories in Englewood, FL, escaping Minnesota winters. Doug also enjoyed chasing the ball on the golf course and was an avid sports fan, especially of Minnesota teams. He had a kind heart, a witty sense of humor, and was a man of integrity. Doug was a role model to many and was always very supportive of his grandchildren, faithfully attending their sporting events and activities. Praying for others was an integral part of his life.

Doug is survived by his wife, Betty of Coon Rapids; daughter, Paula (Kevin) Johnson of Fridley; siblings, Terri (Rick) Cherra of Kansas City, MO, Patty (John) Hernesman of Gilbert, AZ, and John (Barb) Galinski of Elk River; grandchildren, Jake (Megan) Johnson of Broken Arrow, OK, Luke (Annika) Johnson of Minneapolis, and Kyle Johnson of Fridley; and many nieces and nephews who lovingly called him “Uncle Doug.” He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Betty (Bergquist) Galinski.