Douglas Ault MacNichol of McCall, Idaho, died Nov. 17, 2010, in a work-related accident. Douglas was born in Toledo, Ohio, on Nov. 5, 1960, to Roland and Sally MacNichol of Essex, Conn., and Stanley Idaho. Douglas was raised in Perrysburg, Ohio, and graduated from Maumee Valley Country Day School. Following his love of horses and ranching, he attended Colorado Mountain College and Texas Christian University, where he obtained his degree in ranch management. After college, Douglas moved to Bellevue, Idaho, then to Portland, Ore., then settled in McCall. In McCall, he started his own successful business, Central Mountain Management.
Douglas was very active in the McCall community. His great passion was for his work on the McCall-Donnelly School Board where he served as board member for 11 years including service as board chair for the last eight years. In that role he was instrumental in the passage of a school construction bond and the construction of two new school buildings. He took strong personal interest in school operations, key hiring decisions and the great success of all children in the district.
When he wasn't working or volunteering his time for the school district or attending his children's activities, Douglas could usually be found in Stanley, Idaho, at his family's ranch. He loved riding horses and snowmobiles in the mountains of Idaho. He spent hours caring for the buildings, barns, fences and ditches at the ranch. He had a deep love of the Sawtooth Valley.
Most of all, Douglas was a deeply devoted father to his children, Madison and Neil. He was at every game, performance and event for his children and he was always deeply proud of their accomplishments. Douglas showed unswerving love and devotion to his parents and was a warm and caring brother. "Uncle Doug" also held a special place in the hearts and lives of his eight nieces and nephews. His good humor, hearty smile and strong work ethic will be missed by all.
He is survived by his parents; his children, Madison and Neil MacNichol; his sisters, Sally MacNichol of New York City and Caroline MacNichol of Wellesley, Mass.; his brothers, Roland MacNichol Jr. (Terri) of Lopez Island, Wash., and Carter MacNichol (Jennifer) of Portland, Ore.; and his nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 28, at McCall High School. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the McCall-Donnelly Education Foundation.