Mr. Whitekeys, longtime Fly By Night star, dies

Doug Haggar, better known to audiences as Mr. Whitekeys, has died. He is remembered for his decades of performance at the Fly By Night Club and his deep connection to the local birding community. His death closes a chapter on a unique voice in Alaska entertainment.

The Fly By Night Club served as a cultural hub for locals and visitors alike. For many years, guests who arrived in Anchorage were sent to the venue to experience the local scene. The club’s entrance featured a distinctive road bump that greeted every visitor. Inside, the show offered a journey through the state’s hidden back roads and byways, a tour that rarely appeared in standard travel guides.

Haggar cultivated a recognizable stage presence. He frequently wore a white scarf, known as a shemagh or keffiyeh, which he adapted from desert gear to serve as a personal trademark. His smile and laughter were noted for their warmth and infectious energy. These elements defined his persona as much as his musical performances did.

His shows were heavily associated with the canned meat product Spam. Audience members shared photographs of Spam cans collected from locations around the globe. The brand’s popularity in his act led to a relationship with the Hormel family, the makers of Spam. Haggar became acquainted with members of that family through this shared connection to the product.

Local columnist Jeff noted that Haggar recognized him during a performance at the Fly By Night Club. The entertainer incorporated a song into the show that referenced the columnist’s garden. The lyrics described dogs urinating on the pure green lawn and writing the columnist’s name in urine. The specific words used in the song are not recalled, but the anecdote was cited as a humorous moment in the show.

Beyond his career in entertainment, Haggar was an avid birder. He approached bird watching with the same seriousness he applied to his performances. This spring, he spent time in Anchorage with his spouse. They observed snow geese and trumpeter swans as they passed through the coastal flyway. The local environment provided a natural setting for his personal passion for wildlife observation.

The Fly By Night Club remains a landmark in Anchorage history. It stood as a place where the state’s culture was performed and shared. Haggar’s presence there helped define the venue’s identity for generations of attendees. His work bridged the gap between local traditions and national audiences through his unique style.