Eric Davis Douthitt passed away at the home of a friend on April 10 at age 54. Eric made his home on Donner Summit for nearly 35 years and left his mark there with his artisan masonry, woodwork and crafts. A relentless rockhounder, skier, golfer, hiker and cyclist, Eric lived his entire life to the fullest. An independent man with a fascination for bugs and reptiles, he was always on the go. Eric had the ability to turn a tale and create smiles like few others. His wry, visual sense of humor and gracious nature were two of his greatest gifts.
Diagnosed nearly 5 years ago with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s, Eric spent the last years of his life traveling while he still could. Despite his debilitating illness, Eric continued to create abalone art, memories and laughter for his numerous friends. ‘I want all of my friends to know I love them,’ he often said. He braved his disease with an amazing lust for life.
A remembrance party was held on Sunday April 27 at Sugarbowl, where Eric’s friends sent him off in style, skiing a run in his honor on the East face of Mt. Disney.
Eric is survived by his mother, Annette Douthitt of Lodi, sister Marie Aznoe from Pioneer, brother Steven Douthitt of Sacramento, and many, many beloved friends.
