I just saw this one posted. I was one of the people who rallied around Doug. I drove him to all of his Onocologist appointments, as well as his chemo and radiation treatments.
I first met him at Beaver Valley in the early 80's. He seemed abrasive to me then, so we did not get close, because of my tendancies towards early judgement back then.
At Palo Verde, in 1989-1990, when he got stricken, I began to talk to him, heart to heart and found that he was just a wonderful and kind and very loving person. I had no trouble understanding him through his throat vibrator. We became great friends.
His children came to Arizona and I got to meet them all. It was a wonderful experience! Alas, right before he passed, Doug had asked his family to ask me to be a pall bearer for him. I had just gotten a lay off notice from a 40 hour per week job. I did not have the money.
Now that I think back on it, I should have sold something for the ticket. I was young and foolish back then.
Doug was a great man. I should have been there for him.
Now though, I have forgiven myself. I still think of him often. He taught me alot about going through hard times and personal judgement back then. I still pray for Doug's family. Being with him during his cancer treatment was one of the best experiences of my life. I'll never forget him or his family.
Here's to Doug! I know that he appreciates strawberries in Heaven (he was never a swine). People who know him will understand that last statement.