Douglas Edgar Updike

DOUGLAS E. UPDIKE January 21, 1935 ~ July 31, 2015 "There is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving". - "Henry Drummond" Douglas E. Updike, 80, of Vancouver, WA, passed away peacefully in his home he built in 1962 surrounded by his loving family on Friday, July 31, 2015. Doug was born in Vancouver, WA on January 21, 1935 to Edgar and Helen Updike. After graduating from Battle Ground High school in 1953, Doug wasted no time finding his career. He started work at the Union Pacific Railroad in 1954 and retired in 1986 after a successful 32 years. Doug was also an accomplished raspberry farmer, taking over "Updike Berry Farm" from his father in 1975 . In 1955, he married the love of his life, Judy Ann Curtis. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on the 15th of July. He is survived by Judy Ann, and sisters, Bonnie and Linda. He also leaves behind five children (Steve, Mike, Cheryl, Debbie, and Sue), and was a proud and loving Grandfather to 14 (Tony, Crystal, Jennie, Brad, Stacy, Ashly, Kyle, Kelly, Carly, Julie, Kristen, Jeffrey, Brian and Brooke), as well as an amazing and active Great-Grandfather to 16. His best friends Buddy and Chewy are now keeping him busy in heaven. He valued education and made college possible for all of his grandkids. He wanted to give them the gift of a future, and many of them benefited from his giving. He was very supportive and wanted only the best for every one of them. Doug (Dad, Baba, Pops, Gramps) was a friend to everyone. Those who were lucky enough to meet him are better for it. He never had a bad word to say about anyone, was always optimistic, and extremely sharp and witty. Idle time was not his style. He was never without a project. He kept busy coaching little league, playing golf, traveling, raspberry (and later strawberry) farming, repairing any friend or family member's vehicles, doing crosswords with Judy, loving and caring for his dogs, and playing poker (among many other things). He also appreciated a good (or bad) whiskey. He was always there to give advice or lend a hand with anything, including removing slivers with his pocket knife. He did not judge, and was tough but fair. He was a forward thinker who went with the flow. Above all what he truly loved most is the time he spent with his loving family, who will all miss him more than words can ever say. A Celebration of Life BBQ will be held at Blue Lake Park in Fairview, OR, at 1:00p.m. on September 26th. All are welcome. Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.

Douglas Edgar Updike

January 21, 1935 - July 31, 2015