The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Douglas Gene Nikolas, age 49, passed away at home with his family by his side on July 6, 2012. Doug was born April 29, 1963 in Portland, to Don and Deanna Nikolas and was raised in Milwaukie, Ore.

He married Marilyn Sotka, daughter of Norman and Phyllis Sotka of Rosburg, in 1988 and they made their home in Battle Ground. Doug enjoyed playing baseball, coaching his sons in football and baseball, fishing, hunting, working on cars and building things — including his shop and his wooden fishing boat. He was also a talented bowler who could throw a wicked hook and bowled many perfect games. Doug was known for his great sense of humor, quick wit, and the ability to recall all sorts of trivia.

He worked for Precision Castparts Corp. for 28 years. Doug was a wonderful son, husband, and father and will be missed greatly by all who knew him.

Doug is survived by his wife Marilyn; their three sons, Ben, 16, Brian, 12, and Blake, 4; parents Don and Deanna Nikolas; brothers, Jeff (Michelle) Nikolas and Russ (Cindy) Nikolas and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 14 at 2 p.m., at Summit View Church in Vancouver. A graveside service will be held at Eden Valley Cemetery in Rosburg Sunday at 2 p.m. A gathering will be held afterwards, at the home of Norman and Phyllis Sotka, 5 Eden Lane in Rosburg. Donations can be made to the Doug Nikolas Memorial Fund at any Sterling Bank.