Paul Douglas Wigfield

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Doug Wigfield, who went to be with his Maker, on the 14th of September, at the age of 75. Born to his late father, Paul Ellsworth Wigfield, and his mother, Helen Majka Wigfield, on June 17th, 1949, in Hagerstown, Maryland. Doug’s life was one marked by love for his wife and family, steadfast service to God and others, discipline, kindness, and a sense of humor that endeared him to many. Developing an interest in wildlife at an early age, he set his sights toward his goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. A proud alumnus of Hagerstown High School, Doug furthered his education at Eastern Kentucky University. There, he earned his long-dreamed-of degree in Wildlife Biology. It was in his freshman year at EKU, when he met and fell in love with Alice, his best friend and bride of 52 years! After his graduation and wedding, Doug’s patriotic spirit was reflected in his service to the United States Army, where he was a rifle sharpshooter in the National Guard for 9 years of service to his country. In his career, Doug served his state for 34 years in the Wildlife division of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. His proudest accomplishment was in bringing Maryland’s wild turkey to the Eastern Shore, then growing the population to its current abundance. With his collaboration on bear hibernation studies, bald eagle and falcon projects, setting kill limits for hunters, and educating youth on gun & hunter’s safety, Doug was fulfilled in his chosen field. In retirement, he enjoyed hunting, guiding, and writing, as well as continuing to grow his business with the original “Sika Seducer”. A long-time member of the Allen Memorial Baptist Church, Doug sang tenor in the choir, and loved his Sunday School class. He practiced his faith with devotion and humility, making sure to give God the glory for everything…especially as cancer ravaged his body. Doug found joy in his devotion to his family, the great outdoors, pursuing his passions for hunting, wildlife conservation, and playing with his cherished dog, Brandy and best friend, Alice. He is mourned by his wife, Alice Kraig Wigfield; 100-year-old mother, Helen Wigfield; daughters, Kelly McKelvey (Dr Kevin McKelvey), and Courtney Maiorano (Michael Maiorano); sister, Geri Wigfield; as well as grandchildren; Joshua & Garrett McKelvey, and Gabriel, Simone & Gillian Slutzky. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law; Joseph (Marie), Kerry Kraig, and many beloved nieces & nephews. Doug’s life will be celebrated in a service at Allen Memorial Baptist Church, 1303 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, MD 21804, on the 19th of September. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life during visitation from 9:30-11am, with a service following at 11am.

Paul Douglas Wigfield

June 17, 1949 - September 14, 2024