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Vander Poest graduated from Cornell University and in 1982 he found Slug-A-Bug, which is located in Melbourne, Fla. At its founding, the company was a one man operator but Slug-A-Bug Pest Control has grown to be one of the largest professional pest management companies serving Brevard County.
In addition to his work with FPMA, he was active in the Eau Gallie Rotary Club, American Cancer Society and the Space Coast Marine Institute. He received the Small Business of the Year award from the Melbourne Area Chamber of Commerce. He and his company contributed to many Brevard charities and causes including Habitat for Humanity and the Salvation Army.
"We all loved Doug for his compassion, his intelligence, his wit and his giving spirit. Everyone who met him came away a better person," said Steve Lum, general manager of Slug-A-Bug. "We will miss him everyday."
Vander Poest is survived by wife Cindy, daughter Grace, parents Doug and Helen and two sisters.
Viewing is today at Beach Funeral Home East Chapel (1689 S. Patrick Dr., Indian Harbor Beach) from 6 to 8 p.m. Services are at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 638 S. Patrick Dr., Satellite Beach at 11 am on Wednesday, Nov. 16.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Doug Vander Poest Memorial Fund, c/o Slug-A-Bug, 2091 N. Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32935. The family will contribute the donations to the many charities that Doug supported.