Douglas D. Bloedel, 82, died on April 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Doug was born in New Ulm, Minnesota, to August and Magdalena Bloedel. He graduated from New Ulm High School, where he was an outstanding athlete, and Mankato State College, where he completed the coursework for a master’s degree. In 1965, he married Carol Schreiner, and together they raised four daughters, Kim, Kari, Suzi and Nichole.

After teaching and coaching high school students for two years, Doug went into business with his brother. He successfully owned and operated Spencer Storage Systems and Spencer Cold Storage, retiring in 2023. Doug’s greatest joy was time spent with Carol and their family, especially their daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He treasured family beach vacations, trips to Las Vegas with his brothers and nephews, and celebrations with loved ones. Above all, he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

A lifelong learner, Doug valued education and demonstrated that commitment through his support of local schools, libraries and community programs. An avid reader, he especially loved science fiction, drawn to its imaginative worlds and exploration of new ideas. His curiosity led him to become an early adopter of computers and new technologies while also developing a wide range of skills that allowed him to approach many projects with confidence. Those who knew Doug quickly learned that beneath his quiet and unassuming manner lay a breadth of knowledge and a keen sense of humor.

Doug is survived by his wife, Carol, and by his children and grandchildren: Kim and her husband, Karl; Kari and her husband, Lee, and their children, Maya and Aidan; Suzi and her husband, Dan, and their son, Logan; and Nichole and her husband, Jay, and their children, Tyler, Leo, and Oliver. They will strive to carry forward his values of family, education, lifelong learning, and the work ethic he modeled throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Cattails Place (611 W. Doege St., Marshfield, WI 54449) or your local public library.