Douglas Gumke

Douglas Duane Gumke, 66, of Jamestown ND, passed away on April 6, 2026, at the Fargo Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Doug was born on September 5, 1959, to Walter and Hilda Gumke in Jamestown ND. After graduating from Jamestown High School in 1977, Doug went on to serve in the US Army from September 13, 1977, to September 11, 1980, as a Recovery Specialist.

Doug returned to Jamestown after his military service where he joined his brother, Don, in the automobile industry. They started out in a small gas station downtown but soon moved to Don’s Auto Center to the top of “Hospital Hill.” They expanded the business over the years employing as many as 11 service technicians. Doug worked as the service writer/shop manager. His friendly smile and caring attitude earned his customers’ trust and return business.

Doug found another role he enjoyed when Don took over operation of the Jamestown Speedway in 1999. Doug was the front straight line-up guy. His job was to realign cars in their proper running order after the stoppage of a race. His many hand gestures were well known, and he became a legend for his ability to run backwards while pointing the cars to their proper place.

Doug met Robin Thornton in 1991 and they married in 1995. Together they welcomed their son, Eathan Gumke, to their blended family. Many summers were spent at Smokey’s Campground where Doug loved to camp, fish and relax with family. In 2010, Doug was awarded Jamestown Wrestling Association’s #1 fan as he loved supporting his son Eathan and fellow teammates.

Doug met Karen Widmer in 2014, and they have been together since. They bought a house where he loved doing yardwork and home projects. Doug loved entertaining and cooking for family and friends. Together they enjoyed traveling to support his brother Don’s racing.

Doug took immense pride in being a father, always showing unwavering love, kindness, and support to his family. He will be remembered for his entertaining antics with his family and friends, stemming from his love for laughter, his caring spirit and for the deep affection he held for those close to him.

He is survived by his companion of 12 years, Karen Widmer; siblings, Shirley (Dave) Cotton, Joyce (Butch) Randall, David Gumke, and his late brother Don’s companion Joanne Dieterle; Children, Nick (Jennifer) Thornton, Nichole Greenstein, Nathan Thornton and Eathan Gumke; 10 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren.

Doug was preceded in death by his mother, Hilda, his father, Walter, and his brother Don.

A memorial service to celebrate Doug’s life will be held on April 13, 2026, at Haut Funeral Home in Jamestown, ND. Friends and family are invited to join in remembrance and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to support the Fisher House Fargo ND - https://connect.fisherhouse.org/campaigns/fargond.