Marion Nute Docter

Marion (Diggs) Nute Docter

2.18.1918 – 7.15.2023

Among the last of the “Greatest Generation”, our beloved 105-year -old mother, Diggs, was born in Seattle. She had two older siblings Elizabeth Nute Pelly and John Nute. Their mother died before Diggs’ second birthday and she lived a challenging childhood, receiving her K-12 education at schools in New England, happily returning to the Northwest for summers on the south end of Bainbridge Island where she eventually lived full time.

She attended Vassar & the University of Washington before serving as a Naval Aviation Gunnery instructor during WWII. During this phase of her and our country’s life, she relied on her sister, communicating extensively in letters recently rediscovered. After the War, she met and married our father, Jack Docter, in 1948 while attending graduate school. They raised three children: Jeffrey (Loie), Marion (Clyde) and James, living a busy life skiing, sailing, and advancing Jack’s medical career while spending summers and holidays at the Pelly home on Bainbridge. Jack’s retirement allowed Diggs the opportunity to return to her roots, building her dream home down the road from her parent’s and sister’s homes.

Mom was a member of numerous organizations: the Junior League, the Sunset Club, PTAs, Children’s Orthopedic Hospital Guilds, the Arboretum Foundation, the Seattle Garden Club, and later was a docent at the Bloedel Reserve. She and Jack were active members of the Seattle and Corinthian Yacht Clubs and spent most winter weekends skiing in the Cascades. They were among the Founders of Crystal Mountain Resort where she sold lift tickets as her skiing career wound down. She was engaged in all the activities in which her family was involved -running school paper drives, Children’s Hospital Penny Drives, and supporting the academic, sporting and social activities of her children. She is survived by them, their families, and those of numerous nieces and nephews. A proud descendent of Salem witches, she had an indomitable spirit, was smart, resourceful, dignified and strong.

She will be missed by many. Family and friends are invited to a casual farewell at Wisteria Hall in the U of W Arboretum from 1:00 to 3:00 on October 10, 2023.

Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.