Douglas Frick, 63, of Laramie, Wyoming died on November 16th.
Born in 1961 to Ella and Cy Frick, Doug grew up in Sequim, Washington where his love of the outdoors was nurtured by days on the family farm and time in his beloved Olympic Mountains. Boy Scouts was an important part of his outdoor education; he became an Eagle Scout in 1978. He attended the University of Washington in Seattle, studying math and computer science. This is where he met Marie, his browned-eyed girl and the love of his life. After their early married life in the Seattle area, Doug and Marie moved to Makaha, Hawaii in 1990 and lived there for 15 years. Doug earned his Master’s degree from the University of Hawaii, but what he loved was his time spent in the ocean: swimming, snorkeling and body surfing. He loved to body surf BIG waves, earning him the nickname “Otter.” He also hiked all over Oahu with his good friends.
After 15 years of married life adventuring all over the world, Connor and Lauren were born. Doug was an incredible father, a nurturing and understanding soul. The kids were out hiking with him as soon as they could walk.
Doug’s work as a computer programmer gave him the flexibility to work from home. He wanted to be in a small town close to family, so in 2005 moved to Laramie. The kids grew up with their cousins and Doug helped build a business that allowed him to have lots of family time.
The lasting impact of Doug’s life is how he led and taught kids. First with his own kids, his much-loved nieces and nephews and his ‘Ohana — he took them all hiking, skiing, swimming, camping, backpacking, biking and adventuring. Then there were all the Scouts he influenced, setting an example of how to constructively build fellowship and community. He attended Wood Badge in 2010, was the Cubmaster and had numerous other roles in Boy Scouts. He was also “man enough to be a Girl Scout.” For the past 11 years, coaching the Nordic team at Laramie Middle School was his passion. Doug taught so many kids how to ski, how to fall, and how to love the sport. He called them his “ducklings” and they followed him everywhere, both on and off trail.
After suffering a massive heart attack last February, Doug had completely recovered and enjoyed every minute of his “bonus life.” The heart attack that took him was sudden and unexpected. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marie, his children Connor and Lauren, his parents, his siblings Sonja and Craig and numerous nieces and nephews.
There are no plans for a service at this time. The best way to honor Doug and his life is to go outside and do something, anything. Take a hike, look at the night sky, breathe and love life.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Medicine Bow Nordic Association to support the trails that meant so much to Doug.
Marie, Doug and I were in Scouts together in Sequim, I remeber some fun conversations, he was excited to attend the University of Washington, he loved listening to Heart, he loved his Moms big Ford Station Wagon, we both went and saw Rocky Horror Picture show at the Neptune Theater! Doug was such a nice person, full of optimism, a big loss.
Doug was always a friend to the family, but my strongest personal memory of him was when he took my cousin and I hiking out into the Cascade wilderness for three days, back in 2007. Not only was he our guide, an expert of the woods, and a guardian to us as we traveled, he was also a kind and patient presence for us, as well an ever-present voice of gentle humor. This was just the way Doug carried himself, and it made him someone one could rely on and look up to. I'll always have fond memories of that hike and of Doug. My condolences to his family and friends, he will definitely be missed.
Marie, Connor and Lauren, I was saddened to hear about Doug! I am so sorry for you loss! You three are in thought and prayer.
Doug was one of our Mac gurus in Hawaii. He shared his knowledge so selfless ing with everyone _ and even remotely when we needed help. Surely there's a special place for him in Heaven
Marie, Connor, and Lauren, Doug was a remarkable man. The tribute to him is perfect! It's a privilege to have known him, if only briefly. Always enjoyed our winter vacations with you all in Yellowstone! Doug was in his element. ❄️ May you find comfort and strength in the many beautiful memories you share. We are so very sorry for your loss. Much love, Kelli and Steve Daum
Marie, Connor, and Lauren, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our family is thinking of you and sending our wishes for comfort and peace. - The Wallace family- Sherrie, Warren, Sarah and Suzy
Marie, Connor, and Lauren, We're so sorry for your family's loss. Jack was in Scouts with Doug & Connor and completed Leadership Camp with Doug's guidance. He enjoyed his adult friendship since then and continues to love outdoors. I'm sorry for the loss of your life partner, Marie. TJ Poll & Jack Hartman
My son was in scouts with Doug and Connor, until we moved away in 2012. Doug was a kind man, and my son enjoyed his time with him. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, and am sorry for the family’s loss. You all are in my prayers. Verity Hager & Elijah Elizondo
Marie, please know you and your family in our prayers. Your loss of your husband was so sudden and unexpected. My condolences. Becky
What a lovely tribute to a remarkable man that loved life, was giving of his time and talents (from the outdoors to computer classes) and cherished his family, community and the world around him. With love and condolences, The Bonini-Miller Clan
Sorry to hear of the loss of Doug. Prayers from Ohio Chad
Marie, Connor and Lauren, I am sorry to hear of your loss. May loving memories surround you all. Ronda Jackson
Marie, Connor and Lauren, I am so very sorry for the loss of Doug. To say that Doug was a remarkable man would be a great understatement. I enjoyed all of the time we spent together making memories during Boy Scouts. Please know that our family is thinking of you and lifting you in prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time. Lots of Love~ The Buckman Family