Douglas Lee O’Connell, 73, of Sterling died Thursday July 2, 2026. Doug was born May 20, 1953 in Hot Springs SD, the son of William "Bill" and Maxine (Hill) O’Connell. He married Charlene Carl on March 4, 1989 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling.

Doug enjoyed hiking, camping, miniature war gaming, disc golfing, and the Dallas Cowboys. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Charlene; three sons Devin O’Connell of Sterling, Kellen O’Connell of Sterling, and Owen; one daughter Aislinn O’Connell of Sterling; one brother Bruce (Theresa) O’Connell of Rapid City SD; mother-in-law Janet Carl of Prophetstown; two sister-in-laws Anita Carl of Sterling, and Denise Carl of Sterling; one niece Brynna Carl of Sterling.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law Edward “Bud” Carl, and Fred the Dog.

Visitation will be 5PM-7PM Monday July 13, 2026 at Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation in Sterling. Memorial service will be 11AM Tuesday July 14, 2026 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling, with Reverend Jacob Gawlik, officiating. There will also be a visitation one hour prior to the memorial service at Church, from 10AM-11AM.

A memorial has been established.

Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com