Douglas Donald Decker

Douglas Donald Decker, age 79, of Bellevue, passed away on October 2, 2008.It was while skiing in 2003 that he suffered a severe spinal cord in-jury. He faced the challenge of being a quadriplegic with dignity and perseverance. Larger than life, he inspired everyone around him and lived life to the fullest.Born in Portland, OR, he graduated from Oregon State University where he was President of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity and a member of the varsity basketball team. He served in the U. S. Army in the Korean War. He began his career as a sales representative for Clark Equipment Co and Boeing Co and then turned to a series of entrepreneurial opportunities. As owner of Fire Control N/W, he marketed and serviced fire trucks for the American LaFrance Co and then specialized in waste disposal systems through Auger Pak. He was an avid golfer, skier and gardener as well as a Seattle sports fan. He was a member of the Glendale Golf and Country Club. Residents of Brettonwood honored him in 2007 with a plaque for the entrance garden which he galvanized neighbors to plant and maintain. He ran daily in his neighborhood with his beloved Golden Retriever, Maggie, who preceded him in death in 2005.He is survived by his wife Linda Geis; two daughters, Leslie Decker of Sammamish and Jennifer Strachan of Guernsey, Channel Islands; a son, Steven Decker of Los Angeles; grandson, James Rimmer of Sammamish; and four granddaughters, Leila Decker of Los Angeles, Josephine Rimmer of Sammamish, Olivia and Caitlin Strachan of Guernsey; and his nephews Thomas Decker of Tacoma and James Decker of Albany, OR. A Celebration of his life is being held at Glendale Country Club November 8. For info email Lesliedecker@aol.com. Remembrances can be made to Pushing Boundaries (facility for people with paralysis), 4162 148th Ave NE, Redmond, WA. View Doug walking on You Tube.130678