Douglas A. Harding, 64, of Athol, died peacefully Thursday, February 26, 2026, in UMass Memorial Medical Center-University Campus, Worcester, after a brief illness.

Born in Gardner on July 25, 1961, he was the son of Joan (Algier) (Harding) McMackin of Templeton and the late Stuart Harding of Gardner. In addition to his mother he is survived by his stepfather William McMackin of Templeton.

Doug was employed for many years as a groundskeeper at Ellinwood Country Club in Athol, where his strong work ethic and love for the outdoors were evident in all he did.

Doug spent much of his free time outdoors. Earlier in life, he enjoyed unicycling around town, water skiing, and hiking. In later years he found joy in gardening, fishing, golfing, and working the land. Doug was especially proud of his son and grandchildren and carried that pride with him throughout his life.

He is survived by his son, Sean Harding and his wife Samantha of Winchendon; two grandchildren, Harley and Jace Harding; two brothers, Robert Harding and his fiancée Beverly of Oklahoma, and Richard Harding and his wife Nancy of New Jersey; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his brother, Kenneth Harding, and grandparents, Kathleen "Grannie" Harding and Malcolm Kenneth Harding of Templeton and Julia and Rufus Algier of Leominster.

Graveside Services will be held in the spring at Pine Grove Cemetery, Patriots Road, Templeton, MA. Service details will be announced at a later time.