• Courtesy: Douglas J Companies

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - It is with heavy hearts to announce the passing of longtime resident and Meridian Township business owner Douglas Weaver, at the age of 77.

Weaver is the founder of Douglas J Companies and owner of Douglas J Salon and Spa in Meridian Township.

As the son of two hairdressers, he developed a passion for the salon industry early in his life.

He trained alongside internationally known hairdressers including Yves Durif, Billy Wallace, Jon English and Oscar Bond.

His beauty school, Douglas J Aveda Institute, succeeded in taking the technical and business skills perfected for nearly half a century, training talented staff.

Anyone who knew Weaver knew his highest priority was always his staff and his guests. He loved being in the salon and seeing the many familiar faces of those that he had cared for over the years. He was always happy to give advice and coach young stylists, mentoring them and watching them grow into talented professionals.

His work has been published in several national and international magazines including American and Modern Salon.

In 1998 Weaver was awarded the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award in the service category. In 2003 he was recognized for his continuous contribution and dedication to the advancement of the salon and style industries with the prestigious Intercoiffure Service Award.

His legacy continues to grow and live through his two sons, Scott and TJ Weaver, who currently run the family business of nine locations including three salons and six schools.

Giving back was one of Weaver's biggest priorities. The company has donated more than $1.8 million dollars to charities worldwide.

His accomplishments, good spirit and kind heart will never be forgotten.

His memorial service will be on February 25 at the Okemos Community Church at 2PM. Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes will be supporting the family during this time.