Douglas "Doug" Allyn Pierce

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Douglas “Doug” Allyn Pierce, a beloved father, husband, papa, brother, friend, and cherished community member. Doug passed away unexpectedly on January 14, 2025, at the age of 71 due to a sudden cardiac arrest.

Born on March 22, 1953, in Buffalo, New York, he grew up in Pelham, New York, in a large, loving family. Doug moved to Dillon, Colorado, in 1977, shortly after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. His culinary journey began at Keystone Resort, where his tenacity led him to the role of Director of Food and Beverage over a span of 28 years. After his time at Keystone, he and his late wife, Deb, bravely opened the Arapahoe Café & Pub, it became a beloved local eatery filled with laughter, warmth, and fantastic food.

Julie and Doug started Bonnie Q BBQ catering, expanding the business and sharing his love for food that “makes your big toe wiggle.” Doug was fiercely committed to his restaurant, staff, and, most importantly, his family.

Doug’s love for cooking extended beyond the café’s walls. He cherished the moments spent in the kitchen cooking for his family and friends expressing his love through taco nights, posole, and countless bowls of soup. 

Doug's feisty and cantankerous demeanor often masked a heart of gold. Those who knew him recognized him as a passionate and strong man who loved deeply. 

Doug is preceded in death by his wife, Deb; his parents, Nicole and Doug; and his brothers, Tom, Steve, and Richard. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Julie; his daughters and their families, Kelsey Miskulin (Brian) and Bonnie Lehman (Noah); his stepdaughters, Leah Rybak (Paul) and Chelsea Van Winkle (Brett); his sisters, Michele Loehr (Kevin) and Jeannette Pierce; and his granddaughters, Georgie, Ellie, Nora, and soon-to-be Margot.

He will be remembered for his kind heart, big hands, extensive family, and delicious food, which touched so many lives. 

Doug often used his culinary skills to support various causes, showing his love through food. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Domis Pacus and Soup for the Soul, reflecting his commitment to breast cancer research in honor of his late wife, Deb.

We have all had and loved some of what Doug’s been smoking. His life will be celebrated on February 10th in Keystone, Colorado.