||| FROM MICHELL (MITCH) MARSHALL |||
It is difficult to find the words to say goodbye to someone who has been an important part of my life. My beloved husband, Doug Marshall, passed away on September 15 with me by his side.
Doug Marshall
Doug loved this island, and in 1995 made a decision to purchase property in West Sound and to build our retirement home. He loved the beauty of the island, the quiet moments, the familiar places, and most of all, THE PEOPLE. This was not a place where Doug simply lived, it became a part of who he is.
He cherished the friendships he made here and the many wonderful people who touched his life. He enjoyed the conversations, the laughter, the unexpected encounters, and the feeling of being part of a community where people know one another and CARE about one another. He certainly saw that in the two weeks at home before he passed, so many people who came to say goodbye and expressed how much he has been a part of their lives. Both of us were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love.
There is something very special about living on Orcas Island, and Doug understood that. He felt lucky to be here, and I know how much the people of this community meant to him. It is difficult to express to each and every one of you how much it meant to me to see the love and compassion that was given to my sweet Doug during the time of his transition, and to me as well.
As I face this new chapter without my sweet husband, I am finding comfort in the many memories we made and in knowing how deeply he loved this place and me. I will miss having him beside me, sharing the everyday moments that we so often take for granted—the simple conversations, the familiar routines, and just knowing that he was there.
I also know that Doug would want me to THANK YOU all for welcoming him, for becoming his friends, for sharing your lives with him, and for making this community a place he was proud to call home.
Doug may no longer be walking these island roads with me, but I know a part of him will always remain here—in the places he loved, in the friendships he made, and in the memories we all carry.
Doug’s Celebration of Life will be on October 17, at 2:00PM, at Emmanuel Parish Hall. Please come and remember Doug and remember his love for this community.
I will miss him more than words can ever say
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Doug was such a lovely soul. Lance and I send our love to you, Mitch…and to all those who loved Doug.
My family was just talking about him at family dinner last week ! How funny and wonderful he was. Always willing to help with and project that came through your door of business. I am so very sorry for your loss Michelle. Your kind soul of a man will be missed. Blessings to you. Sami Messinger
Beautifully said, Michell. Doug was a dear and contributed so much to our neighborhood and community. Much love to you.
Oh no! I had to double check that I had read Doug Marshall correctly. I’m so very sorry, Michell. My heart goes out to you. It’s sad that you and he could not have enjoyed many more years together after having left the Office Cupboard behind. I knew Doug had health issues, but had no idea that he was so ill. Thank you for sharing your feelings so beautifully with all of us. Doug was a fine man, kind, warm, helpful, conscientious, and a joy to have known.
I have many memories of Doug, mainly at Office Cupboard, but my favorite was how long and hard he fussed over my passport photo — far beyond what he charges me for that service. His loss leaves a big hole in the community he loved.
Both you and Doug helped me immensely to develop my art form doing pet portraits and all my favorite trees of Orcas Island. I couldn’t have done it without you! Doug’s patient thoroughness helped make every image better. All my best to you Michelle.
Michell – My heart is breaking for you. Sending lots of love
Michelle, Doug was Doug.. we had soo many discussions while working on projects.. he was never short on explaining his View. Whether it Political, Community mindedness or Musical.
When the first Women in the Woods production kicked off, his passion and attention to detail was intoxicating.
That Man was Magical! His insight sharp, His Witt so on point! All with a Kind Hart and clearly he expressed the best example of. DO NO HARM..
I am grateful to have been in his presence, he taught me so much about Grace.. with that chuckle.. magnificent Human!