Douglas Frank Pritchard
1951 - 2009

Doug Pritchard, 58, of Medford, Ore., died peacefully at home Thursday night, October 29, 2009, after a long struggle with diabetes and Wegner's Granulamatosis. 

Born May 15, 1951 in Flint, Mich. on Mother's Day, his mother always said he was her greatest gift. His fondest childhood memories are of lazy fun-filled summers spent at the family cottage on Walloon Lake, Michigan, waterskiing, swimming, exploring, and catching fireflies. He found his passion for music in a high school rock band, inspired by his big brother, Jim.

After college, Doug traveled and landed in Phoenix, Ore. He had many jobs but found his niche with carpentry. He worked for 11 seasons at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival scene shop. He continued as a general contractor.

He met his wife and best friend, for 26 years, Marje, through mutual friends playing, his other passion, darts. They celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in June with a surprise trip to Hawaii. A very special time together holding hands and watching glorious sunsets.

Doug's greatest love in life was his family. He was a wonderful, devoted father, who leaves behind: son, Wade, 16 and daughter, Molly, 14. He experienced no greater joy than watching his children in music, sports, dance, coaching Little League, and snuggling. His love for music is left behind in the guitars he lovingly built for his children. For his family, he turned a sow's-ear-rundown-house into a silk purse, filled with his handcrafted furniture.

He loved playing and watching all sports, but found his great friendship with golfing partners, Mark Adams and Geoff Mills. They made him laugh and supported him always. He built his own clubs for himself and his children and loved playing father/children tournaments.

Doug would have celebrated his 15th AA birthday in February. AA gave him the courage to continue despite his struggles and helped him to connect to his higher power. The Serenity Prayer was truly a part of him.

Doug is survived by his wife, Marjorie Murch; son, Wade Pritchard; daughter, Molly Pritchard; siblings, Lynn Gillespie (Loren), Jim Pritchard (Polly), Tom Pritchard; in-laws, Marion Murch, Stephanie Haggerty, Barbara Murch (Howard), numerous nieces and newphews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Evelyn Pritchard.

Doug we love you and miss you terribly. You left us too soon. Thank you for your time with us. We know that God has folded you in his arms with love and made all the pain and hurt go away. Your children love you and thank you for believing in them. In your honor they will strive to be strong in independent adults. Thank you for your love and protection. 
Daddy, we love you.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 2:00 at the Medford Congregational Church of Christ: 1801 E. Jackson St., Medford. The Reverend Dr. William McDonald officiating.