By Roy Cutler

It’s with deep regret that I am reporting the death of my good friend and railroad buddy, Doug Walters.

Doug and I had over 30 years of fun and fellowship together, as we shared many of the same interests and much time together. In all that time together, I don’t think Doug ever met a person that he didn’t like. I never once heard him say a bad word about anyone.  

Doug had numerous friends in the model railroad community and participated as an operator and advisor on many layouts throughout the Puget Sound. But the layout that he was most influential on is the Olympic Northern, in my basement.

The ONRR is truly as much Doug’s layout as mine. Not only did he develop the operating system, but he worked hard to make every op session enjoyable for the participants. He was always concerned about the “play value” that each operator would experience and took copious notes during op sessions so that he could increase the “play value” per session for next time. 

When Doug was diagnosed with glioblastoma, he told doctors not to tell him how long they thought he had, as he preferred to live each day to the fullest. That really exemplified the Doug I knew; always getting the most out of every experience. 

I definitely miss my close friend, Doug, and I know that many others, that knew him, miss him as much as I do. Just a few weeks ago, Doug committed his life to the Lord, Jesus Christ, so I know that I will see him again. And what a happy reunion that will be! Until then may the glory of the Lord shine upon you and our friend Doug.