Mr. Ost was born in Wellsville on January 23, 1959 to Richard E. and Glenda Rae (Pease) Ost. He was a 1977 graduate of Wellsville High School. Following high school, Doug enlisted in the United States Navy where he served from 1978-1982 and was awarded two Navy Expeditionary Medals, a Meritorious Unit Commendation, and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons.
Doug had a varied vocational path, ultimately spending the majority of his work life at Current Controls in Wellsville. After that, he worked for Alfred University as a tool manager working with students, which he greatly enjoyed.
Doug is survived by the love of his life, Sandra Wigent of Scio and their daughter, Nikki Hunt of Wellsville; two sisters, Kathryn J. Rockwood of Angelica, and Dena R. (Gary) Granger of Mexico; a dear niece, Amy (Benjamin) Ost-Puszcz of Kill Buck; a nephew, John (Ron) Newton of Eldred, Pa.; and three grandchildren, Kenton Shultz, Andra Shultz, and Martin Hunt.
In addition to his parents, Doug is predeceased by a brother, Kenneth E. Ost, a brother-in-law, Pete Rockwood; his best friend, Ray Spencer (2008); and his feline fur baby, Carson.
Doug’s spectator sports were football and racing. He was an avid Bills fan, as well as a NASCAR fan. Recently his family broadened his outlook on racing to include Formula 1. Doug was an outdoorsman, content in nature while fishing and deer hunting. There came a time, when just observing the deer became enough, after a particularly sweet doe captured his heart.
Doug delighted in music and spent many hours playing bass guitar and jamming with his best friend, Ray.
An accomplished handyman, Doug took joy in helping family with their carpentry and home reno projects. He was basically the family protector and did all that he could to contribute to the happiness of each one. That said, he had a sarcastic sense of humor which could take others by surprise until they realized he was only joking. Overall, he was a humble, gentle giant.
A Celebration of Life in Doug’s memory will be held later this year, which will include military honors. Afterward, he will be laid to rest in the York’s Corners Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Doug’s name may be made to Allegany County Cancer Services, Inc., 17 Maple Avenue, Box 534, Wellsville, NY 14895 or to SPCA Serving Allegany County, PO Box 181, Belmont, NY 14813. © 2025 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.