Dori Saffron

Doris Nicholson Saffron

November 13, 1916 -

October 18, 2013

Doris Nicholson Saffron slipped away on October 18, 2013 at Legacy Hopewell House Hospice in Portland, Oregon one month short of her 96th birthday.

She was born at home in Salem, Oregon along with her twin Douglas to Rue and Hester Drager on November 13th 1916 where she lived her entire life. She was the last of six siblings born to the Dragers. Her brothers John, Bob, Doug (twin) and sisters Ruby Mishler and Margaret Hamiltion preceded her in death. Her husband prominent Salem businessman Morrie Saffron also preceded her in death.

Dori was educated in the Salem Public Schools at Grant Elementary School, Parrish Junior High School and Salem High School. In 1939 she graduated from the University of Oregon and soon after married her childhood sweetheart Jimmie Nicholson. At the outbreak of World War II Jimmie enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was ultimately stationed in the Pacific. As a result of the war the couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary four years later.

After the war the Nicholsons had two children, James III and Elizabeth and Jimmie continued with his fathers insurance business in Salem where he worked until his death in 1969. Dori is survived by her children James (Susan) Elizabeth (Richard) grandchildren Erin Anthony (Bernard) James N. Brooke, Richard Brooke (Nicki) great grandchildren Jaaden and Justice Anthony and Charlotte and Madison Brooke nephews Douglas Drager Jr. and David Hamilton (Brenda) niece Pam Drager Santana (John) and step-son John Saffron of New York City.

Throughout her long and productive life Dori was involved in numerous civic and private organizations including Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, The Assistance League of Salem, The Alter Guild and St. Anne's Guild at St. Paul's church, Meals on Wheels and in many other volunteer capacities.

In addition to her active involvement in community affairs, Dori was an accomplished and prolific painter. Her paintings, mostly water colors are no part of her family's collection.

Dori and step-son John developed a wonderful and loving relationship over 30 years and she looked forward to his many visits and generous gifts. She and Husband Morrie traveled the world together and especially looked forward to their annual trips to New York where they were entertained by John at a variety of cultural events. Her special bond with John was of great comfort to her family.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Canfield House in Beaverton where Dori resided prior to her death. Special thanks to Salima Malzin, Dori's wellness coach and companion at the facility.

Services were held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Salem. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made in Dori's name to Legacy Hopewell House Hospice in Beaverton or to the charity of your choice.