Douglas Eugene Gonano passed away at his home on December 7, 2023 surrounded by his wife, Melinda and his son's Alexzander and Matthew. Doug was born on August 20,1954 in Sharon, Pennsylvania to Daniel and Maxine Gonano. He is survived by his wife, Melinda and sons, Zan (Ashley)Jordan and Elliott and Matt (Kasey )Isla, Clara, and Crew.


Doug and Melinda began dating at Hickory High School in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. Doug invited a young girl to be on his yearbook staff. The pursuit led to a love few couples experience. He attended Duquesne University, graduating with a philosophy degree in 1976. Doug then pursued a law degree at the University of Pittsburgh. He and Melinda married in 1977. After receiving his JD in 1979 and sitting for the Pennsylvania bar, Melinda convinced him to leave the cold of Pennsylvania and move to Florida. He was hired by C.R. (Pete) McDonald,Jr. as a young associate in Fort Pierce in September of 1979. Solidifying their roots in this small town led to success, new friends and fantastic memories. Doug purchased Pete's firm and later partnered with Dan Harrell in 1985. They founded Gonano and Harrell where he would practice until his retirement. In 1987 Doug took the first Florida Bar Board Certification in Real Estate maintaining it until 2023. He was recognized in Martindale-Hubbell with an AV Preeminent rating. Doug was a lawyer's lawyer. He truly enjoyed the "art of the deal", but also, was never afraid to step into a courtroom for a client. Doug was passionate and proud of being a lawyer throughout his career. He always strived to be the best at his craft, and loved to meet fascinating new clients from all over the world. If you were ever on the opposing side of a case or transaction you knew he liked to talk shop.


Beyond his professional achievements, Doug's life was enriched by a myriad of passions. His love of music, appreciation of art and architecture, and voracious reading were evident in the peaceful atmosphere of his homes. An avid lover of the outdoors he would relax on his back porch admiring the views while listening to his extensive music collection or a football game. Sundays were family days enjoying all of this and preparing wonderful food.


The homes that Doug and Melinda built were designed for entertaining, reflecting their love for sharing laughter, good food, and fine wine with friends and family. Their homes became the backdrop for countless gatherings, parties, and celebrations over the years.


Doug and Melinda had a shared love of travel, creating memories that will be cherished forever. Traveling as a family on an RV, fishing, hunting, and surfing adventures for their sons and instilling the desire to explore new cultures and diverse experiences.


If you knew Doug, one of his greatest passions was undoubtedly fine wine, and of course great food to pair with it. He and Melinda explored wineries around the world, amassing quite a fine collection. He was fascinated by the art of winemaking, the beauty of the vineyards and especially everyone involved in that process. Many of those acquaintances have become lifelong friends.


Despite all of his achievements professionally, Doug was most proud of his two sons, Zan and Matt and their own professional and personal achievements. Doug and Zan worked side by side at his law firm for a number of years before his well deserved retirement. Doug watched Matt rise through the ranks at his CPA firm ultimately becoming a partner. Doug was a strong believer that accomplishments in life are earned, never given. He along with his beloved wife, Melinda worked diligently to instill a strong work ethic in their sons, ensuring that they would approach life with determination and good values.





Doug's legacy is one of a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and an appreciation for the finer things in life. His impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him professionally and personally will be everlasting. He will be remembered not only for his great legal acumen, but also for his unwavering dedication to family, friends and the pursuit of a life rich in experiences and shared moments. His best friend and college roommate of 51 years, John Farugia, stated,"I have made many friends in life, but only one was my best friend. When my phone is on favorites, there is only one name D.Gonano. It will be there forever." The empty space in one's heart left after the loss of a family member, friend. client, or an acquaintance can never be replaced. Our home was filled with loving and caring people until his death. Tanya, Winsome, Elmais, Marie, and Lilli will forever be appreciated for their amazing care.


A private funeral has been scheduled by the family.

Donations

The family asks that Donations can be made in Remembrance of Doug Gonano to the Rupert J. Smith Law Library
221 S. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, Florida 34950.