Nokes, Douglas James 62 05/24/1948 08/25/2010 After a valiant fight against cancer, Douglas James Nokes passed on during the early hours of Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010, with his loved ones by his side, and his favorite music playing. He was 62. Doug never met a stranger, as he considered all to be friends. The twinkle in his eye, his quick wit, and timeless charm were all part of his magnetic personality. His parents were J. Richard and Evelyn J. Nokes. A Portland native, he graduated from Washington High School, where he was a member of the swim team. He also attended Treasure Valley Community College. Doug followed in the family tradition of working for The Oregonian, where he was a printer for 25 years. Later, he worked for Juniper Fuel and managed several of its stores in Central Oregon, including Plum Fierce in Redmond. Doug was an avid writer of short stories, journals, and editorials. He loved the outdoors, watching sunsets from his home southeast of Prineville, playing folk guitar, and riding motorcycles. He is survived by his children, Troy (fianc‚e, Lisa Millman) and Caroline Stepnowski (husband, Dave); sister, Kathy; brothers, Gregory (wife, Candise) and William; sister, Gail Hulden (husband, William); grandchildren, Jonathan Nokes and Crystal Sabado; great-grandson, Edward Emerson; many loving nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Carly. He also is survived by daughters, Heather Vaughn-Lee and Katherine Somner. Doug touched the lives of so many. His presence filled a room, as does his absence. Forever isn't long enough to hold the ones you love. A private memorial service will be held at a later time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Epilepsy Foundation Northwest.