Friends and family members gathered on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 to honor the late Doug “Uncle Doug” Query with the unveiling of a custom-made, Superman-themed memorial bench in front of the Discover Burien office.
Query, affectionately known as “Uncle Doug,” was celebrated for his unwavering dedication to the community, and was a well-known fixture in “Team Clean Sweep” in Downtown Burien.
Sadly, he passed away in November, 2024.
“I miss this man every day and still cry most times just thinking of him,” Discover Burien Executive Director Debra George said.
George had been Uncle Doug’s caregiver/guardian for 28 years, and she said that he was the kindest soul ever.
The bench’s Superman motif symbolizes Uncle Doug’s role as a local superhero, always ready to lend a helping hand. On the bench is inscribed “In memory,” his name, his birth and death years, a metallic Superman logo, and the message “Bye for now.” The ends are made from upcycled bowling lanes from the old Hi-Line Lanes, where he bowled.
“He taught me so much over the years, and was an angel in my life,” George added. “He has been with me most my adult life, through good times and bad times, I cannot even imagine what my life will be without him…I am beyond heartbroken.”
The memorial bench now serves as a lasting tribute to Uncle Doug’s contributions, offering a place for residents to remember and be inspired by his example. We encourage all B-Towners to find the bench (at 611 SW 152nd Street; map below), and sit for a moment to contemplate and honor his memory.
Photos courtesy Debra George.
