Douglas Ketchem

Douglas Ketchem

August 20, 1966 - August 14, 2025

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Obituary

Douglas (Doug) Wayne Ketchem of Indianapolis passed away August 14, 2025.  Born in Indianapolis August 20th, 1966, to Donald and Diane Ketchem.  Doug was powered by rhythm, rebellion, and quiet compassion.  Doug carried forward his parents' strength and warmth with a spirit uniquely his own.  One that resonated through every bassline, friendship and act of love.

 

A proud graduate of Ben Davis High School in 1984, Doug's teenage years were already steeped in music.  He wasn't just playing bass, he was mastering it, shaping his identity around the raw energy of punk and thrash music.  In the late 1980's Doug became the bass guitarist for Transgression, a local Indianapolis band that carved its place in the underground scene.  Their 1988 album Transgression Cold War was more than a record, it was declaration of youth, grit and artistic defiance.  Doug's playing gave the music its backbone, his riffs pulsing with energy and truth.

 

After Transgression disbanded, Doug continued to chase the sound that stirred his soul.  Joining other bands including Delirium.  Music was never just a hobby; it was his heartbeat.  Whether jamming in garages or swapping tapes with friends, Doug lived for the moments when sound became story.

 

Beyond the stage Doug was a man of deep kindness.  He was close to his family and loyal to his friends.  He had a quiet way of showing up.  Whether it was helping someone move, fixing a broken amp, or simply listening when words were hard to find. 

 

Doug worked for Kohl's, Roadway Trucking, and Chewy for many years.  He brought the same dedication and humility to his jobs that he brought to his music.  He was steady, reliable, and respected by those who knew him.

 

His greatest pride was his daughter Victoria Hensley.  Doug was a devoted father, and their bond was filled with love, laughter and shared stories.

 

Doug is survived by his daughter Victoria Hensley and sister Dee Dee Davis who carry his legacy forward with grace and strength.  He was proceeded in death by his parents Donald and Diane Ketchem.

 

Doug's spirit lives on in every chord played, every memory held close and every heart that knew him.

 

He will forever be missed.  But his song plays on.

 

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Douglas
MS
Melanie Stall
Other •
From The Stall Family. We are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that our thoughts and hearts are with you during this difficult time Dee Dee. May you find comfort in the love and support that surrounds you, and may cherished memories bring you peace.
MS
Melanie Stall
Other •
Lit a candle in memory of Douglas W. Ketchem
PJ
Paula Jessup
Other •
I’ve been holding you both in my heart since I heard about Doug’s passing. Loss has a way of stirring up so many layers—grief, reflection, and gratitude all at once. Doug and I shared a chapter that shaped me in ways I’ll never forget. Through all its turns, the greatest gift we gave each other was our daughter. She is a living reflection of love, resilience, and grace—and for that, I will forever be grateful. I know this moment carries its own weight for each of you. Please know I’m here, quietly beside you, honoring Doug’s memory and the bond that remains. May you find comfort in the stories, the laughter, and the love that endures beyond time. With love and sympathy, Paula
R
Rachel
Other •
God Speed, Doug. Bless your family and friends.
VH
Victoria Hensley
Other •
Dear dad , How could I ever find the words to express how grateful I was to have you as my father in this life . You were kind , understanding, loving & you never cared what I did as long as it made me happy . You truly loved me for who I am and that’s the biggest accomplishment as a parent in my opinion. You were my dad but you sometimes you were also my best friend . I could confide in you , cry , complain , boast .. you didn’t care . You always had a smile on your face when you saw me. Your hugs were so sweet and warming it reminded me of when I was a kid . To think at just 31 years old I lost my twin . The one guy who truly cared about me is just heart breaking to admit . I won’t see the life the same but I understood it was your time . I hope that one day we will meet again . You keep grandma , uncle Mike , and my cat binx company for me . I’ll see you again in the next life . My heart will never quite be the same . You truly took most of it . RIP dad . You will never be forgotten.
PM
Paula McGlothen
Other •
My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. Paula McGlothen

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