Douglas George Birge

Douglas Birge passed away suddenly on October 19, 2022 in Monmouth, Oregon. He was born on August 11, 1947 in Brainerd, Minnesota to Herman and Tallie Birge. In 1952 the family relocated to The Dalles, Oregon and Douglas spent the remainder of his life in Oregon. Douglas was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bob Birge and Harold Birge.
Doug was a devoted family man and is survived by his beloved wife Susan Birge and they had been together nearly 47 years; children Lisa Rowland (Scott), Tom Nicholson, and Joshua Birge (Hector); sister Mary Ann Haas (Frank) and brother Jesse Birge (Kim); grandchildren Colton Rowland (Charlee); Meghan Rowland (Taylor); Madison Ochoa (Johnny); great grandchildren Blaklee and Landree Rowland and one on the way. He also had numerous nephews and nieces and was especially close to Riley Darling who visited him often in his later years. He was a devoted Father and “Poppa” to many beyond his immediate family including the friends of his children and grandchildren and often considered Lorna Hodges his second daughter. He loved many pets throughout his life and is survived by his loyal dogs Lola and Hunter.
Douglas “Doc” Birge was a passionate U.S. Army Veteran. Soon after attending The Dalles High School, he proudly served as a combat medic in Vietnam 1967-1970, including during The Tet Offensive. He was honored with numerous military awards, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star (2) and Vietnamese Gallantry Cross. He was devoted to the members of the Bandido Charlie 5th/60th Mechanized 9th Infantry Division, and was especially close to Larry Miller, Forrest Spivey, Lanny Jones, Curtis Hatterman, David Rohe; there were many others. He always looked forward to any reunions of this group of his brothers in arms.
After Vietnam Doug returned to The Dalles. He then began his career with the State of Oregon at Columbia Park Hospital in 1971 until its close in 1976. He then moved to the Fairview Training Center in Salem until his retirement in 2000. He always had a special love for the residents and staff at Fairview.
Doug was a passionate baseball fan and nothing made him happier than a Boston Red Sox win. He also supported the Oregon State Beavers. He loved to attend sporting and cheer events of his grandkids, nephews and nieces. Doug loved to read and stayed up to date with current events. He spent his free time watching his favorite sports team or tv programs, including Yellowstone or a crime mystery, while munching on his favorite snacks of popcorn and peanut butter cookies—with his mug of black coffee always nearby.
Doug had a strong and gentle personality and was extremely generous to his family and friends. He will be missed by so many people who are grateful to have shared his life.
Douglas will be interred at a private family ceremony at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 19th at 1:00 PM at the Independence, Oregon Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Legion Post 33; 1242 D Street; Independence, Oregon 97351 or the veterans’ group of your choice.