Corban College | Doug West Home with the Lord

Don West (his younger brother), Hume Lake Christian Camps:
"Doug was rock solid in his love for Jesus and others. He has set an example and standard that I know I will never be able live up to. He got me started in Christian Camping over twenty years ago. I will miss him greatly............and his cheap t-shirts."

Marty Trammell, Corban Professor of English & Communication:
"Doug West reflected for me the heart of God. When I told him last summer that Linda and I were headed to Italy with ABWE, Doug was thrilled. He prayed for me, right there, with the same enthusiasm I picture God having. A week later he practically jumped out of his skin when he heard that our sons would be able to go with us. The next day there were 3 checks in my box from Doug -- each addressed to one of my boys. His cheerful giving reflected the heart of God as well. It was always "fun" to rejoice with Doug! Answers to prayer put the "blast" in his day. And just like God, Doug would search the lives of his students for opportunities to care for and rejoice with them. He was seldom in his office (except during the prayer times) and that reflected God as well. There was too much to do, too many students to love, too many people to reach for Christ! Doug's God loving, people loving, fun loving spirit has inspired me immensely, and I look forward to being with him again."

Joany Haws, Corban Director of Church and Community Service:
"Doug was a man of God, truly dedicated to spreading the gospel and...making life fun! The thing I appreciated most about Doug was his love for his family. He was so proud of his children and all that they accomplished and stood for. Rebecca's sweet spirit, Joel's talent in his band and Mackenzie's love to draw and create art. And, of course, we loved it when he brought his dog to work! He loved to share about his wife, Carrie, and her profession as a nurse and all the opportunities they had to go on mission trips. Together as a family they lived out what God calls us to do, serve Him in any capacity by which He calls us. Doug's love for the Lord and his family will always serve as an inspiration to me in my own life."

Wally Vohland, Corban Student Accounts Coordinator:
"…it's [ministry] a lifestyle devoted to advancing other people's faith and holiness. In this sense the only life that amounts for anything is a life of ministry--whether you're a banker or a bricklayer. Fulfilling your ministry is more important than staying alive. "This conviction is what makes the lives of radically devoted people so inspiring to watch. Most of them speak as Paul did about his ministry: 'But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus…." Doing the ministry that God gives us to do is more important than life." Future Grace, John Piper, p. 287. Thanks, Doug for the example!

Jake Hart, Camp Elkanah Director, First Baptist Church Youth Director, LaGrande OR:
"I have been involved with Camp Elkanah for the past 7 years and have been the director for the past 2 years. Doug was a big supporter of Camp Elkanah as he sent hard working students to serve each year and promoted us there on campus. Doug exemplified the love of Christ as each student that he sent out, spoke of him as he was their best friend, knowing the love that he had for his Savior and for them. Never was there a time when Doug was to busy to the work of the Lord. Doug will be greatly missed by all of us at Camp Elkanah and our prayers go out to his family and friends during this time of mourning. Our prayer is that the life of Doug would be remembered for a long time and that through his story, many would come to know the love of Christ in their lives."

Elizabeth Jones, class of 2005, Camp Team 2003 and 2004:
"Doug had a seemingly endless supply of energy. There were days when I saw him at school for my 8am class and he was still going strong for 8pm prayer at church that night. When we were on the road during the summer, no matter what time of day or night, we knew we could call him for advice or just to talk about a camper. His random packages and letters, and knowing he was back home praying for us, encouraged us throughout the week. During the school year, any time I stopped by his office to say hi, he always invited me in and updated me on everything from his kids to what camp was getting a new director for the summer to how things were going at the churches in Senegal and Sierra Leone. He loved to be involved in anything and everything that had to do with spreading the gospel all over the world."

Nathan Warthan, Corban Director of Financial Aid:
"I was blessed to know and work with Doug for eight years. He was part of the Admissions/Financial Aid group, and accompanied us on birthday lunches and Christmas parties. We also interacted routinely because we worked on the same floor and shared printers and copy machines. This was a blessing because he always seemed to brighten up the place with his humor. He seemed to always put an entertaining spin on everything he did. An example is when we hired Ellen as a Financial Aid Officer a few weeks ago and she didn't have any photos on her personal bulletin board yet. Doug cut some random photos out of magazines and tacked them up for her so the board didn't look so bare. Ellen played along for a few days and I wondered who the kid with the soccer ball and the cowboy on a ranch were. We will miss Doug's sense of humor and someone will have to step in the gap to try to make our times together as fun as he did. It will not be easy. But what we will miss most is his amazing example of what a Christian man should strive to be like. I had to email Doug on the 26th to inquire about a budget he oversaw. He was already gone as far as I knew but I tried it anyway. On the 27th at 7:45 am he sent the excel file I needed. I would not be surprised if he came early that day on way to the airport to give me the information. I then replied that morning to thank him and let him know I would pray for him as he was in the middle of the area for the London explosion investigations. He replied back on Friday the 29th at 2:46 am our time and said "Had dinner with a London cop last night, he had some pretty cool stories to tell. All good here -DOUG" I think that was about 24 hours before his trip to Heaven. I was glad to know you Doug, and I will see you when I get there."

Rebekah Cornelius, Graduate Assistant for Strengths Development, Azusa Pacific University:
"Doug was many things to me - freshman seminar advisor, camp counseling professor, short-term mission trip supporter, and co-worker. More importantly he was a friend and mentor to me as I grew from a lost, shy freshman into a passionate lover of college students, Christian camping and missions. Doug was one of the key people who was such a wonderful example and encouragement to me in my personal, professional, and spiritual growth and one of the reasons I desire to impact and serve college students. To Carrie, Rebecca, Joel, and Mackenzie - thank you for sharing Doug with us all of the countless evening and weekend hours. His open door, words of wisdom, and meaningful time spent in prayer are an example to everyone who knew him! Our prayers are with you!"

Becky Leithold, former Corban employee:
"Several characteristics come to mind when I think of Doug, many of which have already been mentioned by others. However, one of the first words is integrity. Doug was a person of integrity and I always admired him for that. He was intentional and careful about the way he lived his life and his desire to please the Lord and to do the right thing permeated everything he did. He lived his life by a set of values that quickly became obvious once you got to know him. He loved our Lord, he not only believed in the power of prayer but he prayed, he was giving, he loved and adored his family, and he wouldn't do anything that may appear questionable in the eyes of others. He was above reproach and I so appreciated his genuineness, his enthusiasm and his friendship. Another word is giving. I appreciated and was blessed by Doug's giving spirit. A few times I needed a pickup to haul or move something and I could count on him for letting me borrow his or if for some reason his truck was not available, he would suggest someone else I might call that could help. Knowing that I was pursuing my elem ed licensure, he would often email (his short and to the point emails) me that he had some old cell phones or whatever that he thought I might be able to use in my future classroom or they would just arrive in campus mail! I also know he prayed for me as I pursued my licensure and prepared to leave the college to student teach. And, I know he prayed for me after I left. We are all better people and more blessed because Doug West prayed.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Carrie and his family and I thank them for sharing Doug with all of us. I already know heaven is a wonderful place, but it just got better! I thank God for Doug and will miss him."

Rich Herold, Associate Pastor, Adult & Family Ministries, Skyline Baptist Church:
"On behalf of Skyline Baptist Church, I'd like to express our condolences to Doug's family and to pledge our love and our prayers. We join you in your grief and in the reflection of a life well-lived, poured out for Christ.

I first met Doug when I was 12 years old, and when he was a young and crazy youth pastor. In the 25 years since then, he has always been a source of wisdom and encouragement for me. We never worked in the same office or even lived in the same town, but we always kept connected and he never failed to have an impact on my life. I will treasure the goofy handouts, bizarre gifts that came in the mail (like a frisbee and 500 "Western Baptist" golf pencils), and the t-shirts he sent. I often use the things I learned from him in my own ministry. As I head off to direct camp this month, I will take a part of him with me. It's a camp that he once directed. Doug's legacy will be the glory given to God by the people Doug mentored and loved. It was a privilege to serve with him on earth, and it will be an unspeakable joy to do the same in Heaven."

Megan Steele, former camper and counselor at Camp Tadmor:
"From the time I was 6 to the time I was 15 I attended Camp Tadmor. I loved that place! To me, Doug west was Camp Tadmor! When I was 17 I was a camp counselor at Tadmor and I remember Doug reading "Good Night Moon" and "The Giving Tree" to the staff on our final night of the summer. Doug was an amazing man and will truly be missed. Very tough shoes to fill."

Rodney Dlouhy, Corban Resident Director:
"I remember when music legend, Rich Mullins, died. My friends and I said that God must be getting ready to return because it looks like He is building the ultimate worship team in Heaven for us when we get there. Now I know God must be close to coming back for us; He came and took Doug, the most dependable and creative man on earth, to help organize the event. I wouldn't be to surprised if Doug isn't MCing the homecoming when we get there. I'm sure he'll have a rubber chicken or some other odd prop in-hand. Dr. Miller used to introduce Doug to us in different chapels by simply stating, "Hey, we love Doug West." Yes, we love Doug West. No one deserves to be with Jesus right now more than you... We'll see you soon, Doug..."

Jeramy Steele, former camper and counselor at Camp Tadmor, youth ministry leader:
"I remember as a child almost being kicked out of Camp Tadmor. Doug West was the last straw for me! I remember the boat ride he took me on, 1-on-1. As a child without a father, this must have really impacted me enough to remember. I kept in touch with Doug through these latter years as well, and he has still shown great belief in me and has been very supportive of a downtown youth ministry I am involved in. In fact, Doug has always overwhelmed me with support. If I get a call from a stranger, who wants to know more about what I am doing downtown, it is usually someone Doug has referred. Doug made it obvious that he believes in people. He was a true servant and he wanted others to succeed. He was a community builder, always encouraging the family of Christ to work together. Doug's circle of influence was very large, but I believe he has equipped those who he has touched with the ability to continue impacting this culture. Also, I will never forget those "Bug-Eyes" when Doug got mad, that too made a lasting impression on all of his former Tadmor Counselors!"

Damion Blair, class of 2000:
"I had the honor of serving on Camp Team under Doug's supervision for two years while attending Western. He was someone I could talk with about things and know that he would give me his honest opinion/advice without being judged, he was safe. Just this last week I met with a good friend of mind to talk about Doug and what he meant to our lives and he said something that I thought was very true about who Doug was. He said that someone asked him to describe Doug for them and after thinking for a moment he said that Doug was a man who was always growing. I hope to be like Doug in this respect, to be a man who always is growing. Doug, you will be missed and I can't wait to see you again..."

Joy Fong, class of 2002:
"Doug of the West (as some liked to call him) was a wonderful and God-fearing man. I can still hear his voice ringing in my ears, "Don't share." This was probably one of the wisest pieces of advice from Camp Team class that I ever learned. Doug was so kind and he truly cared. He had such wisdom that only could have come from the Lord. He will be (and already is) greatly missed."

Albert "CHEROKEE" Ricker, former Tadmor Staff, Student at Corban and Friend:
"Trying to come up with what to say for a man who did so much in my life is tough. Doug taught me how to love to serve while at Tadmor, showed me how to love God and helped build me into the Man of Christ I am today. His quick jokes and stern love was amazing and his open arms were always a welcomed site. I will always thank God for Doug West and how he showed God's love to me, a fatherless youth that needed refining and direction. Thank you Doug for the last 18 years. Carrie, Becka, Joel and Mackenzie, my heart is with you."

Jake Dorr, friend and fellow dreamer:
"Camping. T-shirts. Prayer. Missions. Doug, thank you for what you and your family have brought to the community of Christ. That community is now stronger because of the grace of our Lord Jesus, who by His love has allowed us all to make our own journey in this world. Your life will not have passed without its bountiful share of rewards. Through dedicated planning, teaching, mentoring and leading you have influenced countless lives. You have championed the Cause, and left behind an unforgettable legacy of committed service. You are loved and missed."

Rick and Janelle Barnett, Camp Tadmor Year Round Staff with Doug (1988-1994):
"Our years of working with Doug in the ministry of Camp Tadmor have very special place in our hearts. Doug's expectations of intergity, going above and beyond, and love for the Lord were exemplified in his life. Even though we have not had the opportunities to see the West's as often as we would like since our ministry there, we often think of them with love in our hearts and appreciation of thier friendship and Godly example. Doug will be sorely missed. Our love and prayers continue for Carrie, Becca, Joel, and Mackenzie."

Steve (Wog) Carson, former Christian Camping staff:
"I had the privilege of working with Doug his first two years at Tadmor (83-84). Doug spurred me on to full time ministry in Christian Camping, which I did for a total of 10 years, leaving the full time camping ministry in 1992. I also met Lorraine (Spunky) Boersma that first summer and remember Doug again encouraged me to stay true to my ministry for the summer. Doug later officiated at our wedding in 1986. I had the privilege of returning to Tadmor in the early 90's as guest staff and Doug again encouraged me to keep/get my life (back) on track. Ironically, I remember visiting with Doug after a gal we knew had lost her Dad tragically at a young age. Doug challenged me with a unique perspective on life at that time. Encouraging me that God's gift of his Son was more than we could ever ask for, and the gift of life or health was just frosting on the cake. That kind of shocked me then, and again now, as I realize that God is in control. Life is just a small gift we've been given. A gift so small compared to what He has in store for us for eternity! I haven't seen Doug in 10 years, but I will always remember him as a catalyst in my life and I know he was the same in the lives of many he touched. May God grant his peace and comfort to all of us as the sting of Doug death hits us, but especially to those closest to him."

Kim Barnett, class of 2005:
"I was so blessed to know Doug as a teacher at Corban, a participant in his camp team ministry, and a friend at church. Helping him print t-shirts in his garage was a time to talk about giving, being a missionary, his kids, Africa, prayer, and many other things. Anytime I was around Doug, I could see his love for God and commitment to serve Him in the best possible way. He was an amazing disiciple of Christ, whom many of us can hope to be like. I am now in Germany, working at Black Forest Academy as an RA to missionary kids, and Doug West was a huge part of me getting here. When I first told him I was applying for this position, he was thrilled. He knew the job and he had taken the time to know me well enough that he said this was absolutely perfect for me. I went to him many times for advice throughout my preparations and support raising. I felt the amount of support I had to raise was huge, and I told him this one day. He simply laughed and said, "It's all impossible anyway!" That comment totally showed me his faith in God; that he knew God would provide for what He wants us to do. He was consistently praying for me, encouraging our church to support and pray for me, and helping me get ready. The last time I saw Doug was when I was up front in church, being commissioned by our pastor to leave. Doug was in the front row and gave me a big smile and thumbs-up, like a victory sign that I was finally getting to go serve God in this way. There are so many words to describe Doug: enthusiastic, wise, efficient, committed, devoted, fun, confident, so much faith in the Lord and full of love for Him. It really did show in everything he did--camping, missions, prayer, "student success." Doug leaves some big shoes to fill, and we miss him so much, yet as soon as I heard of this I thought of Philippians 1:21-26. Doug could have had much more fruitful labor here, yet it is better for him to be with the Lord. Praise God. We love you Doug."

Richard and Ryan Riffle,14 yr. old sons of former Corban Resident Directors from 1996-2000, Rick and Suzanne Riffle:
"Doug West meant a lot to us. He was always there when we needed help. If he promised that he would do something then he would keep his promise. Doug changed the lives of many people including my brother and me. If we were making a movie, he would help us out with it. When it was our seventh birthday, Doug came by the dorm apt. to give us a present. It was a very big box and we were very excited to open it. The time had come to open Doug’s present. We went over to the box and started to open it (with a little help). It got smaller and smaller and smaller. It turned out to be two Mickey Mouse cups that we still have. At first, we were disappointed that the big present turned out small but we learned a lesson that small things come in big packages. We will keep these cups in remembrance of Doug forever. Doug was our best friend at Corban College and he will still be our best friend at the college in our hearts. We love Doug, we will miss him, and we look forward to seeing him in heaven. We pray for his family and we hope that God will help them through their troubles. Doug was the best and no one can replace him! --Love Richard and Ryan Riffle"

Jan Trahern, Corban Mailroom Supervisor:
Doug has always been an encouragement to me as a Servant-Leader and encourager. Every time he would see me he would call out my name, “Hello Jan Trahern this is the mailroom mom”, as I would wave back at Doug with a smile on my face, he left me with a sense of dignity and God’s love. We will miss all of his laughs and help in our Corban mailroom. He has encouraged my faith and prayer life for the world, though his desire to serve wherever he was. Doug also has made a tremendous impact in my daughter’s lives and our prayers are with Becca, Joel and Mackenzie. We very much love your family, and the example you have left for my daughters. We will miss your father here at Corban, but we know that Doug lived to give God glory, and he also died to give God glory, and that he is where we all want to be, at the feet of Jesus."