Douglas Robert Nordin

Douglas R. Nordin, age 84, of Sartell and formerly of Willmar, passed away Wednesday, April 16, at his residence.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, at the Willmar Assembly of God Church.  Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

Douglas Robert Nordin was born October 24, 1940, in Willmar, MN, the son of Melvin F. Nordin and Myrtle I. “Edman” Nordin. Douglas grew up in Willmar and graduated from Willmar Senior High School, he is a veteran of the United States Air Force. On July 2nd, 1966, Douglas married LaDon Krueger at the Willmar Covenant Church and made their home in Willmar.

Doug began his career working at Swenson Automobile in Willmar. He eventually served as the body shop foreman at Nelson International for 34 years until opening his own custom painting and body shop at his family farm. Doug was known for his adventurous spirit and many passions and talents, including custom painting semi-trucks, restoring classic cars, racing snowmobiles and stock cars, flying private planes, and golfing for fun and in tournaments. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, a member of the Willmar Sheriff’s Posse, a softball player, a member of Good Sam’s Camping Club, and he loved to sing and play the guitar.

In the year 1970, Douglas accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, which completely changed his life. Doug and LaDon became active members in the Willmar Assembly of God Church, where he sang in the choir and joined various other groups. Doug and LaDon hosted many events at the beloved farm on Lake Wakanda. They both loved to travel and make memories with their children and grandchildren. 

Doug is survived by his wife, LaDon Nordin of 58 years, his sister Maxine Scott of Sioux Falls SD, children: Jeffrey Thomas Nordin of Woodbridge, VA, Kelly Jo (Mark Korman) of Ft. Washington, PA, Angela Sue (Jim Thomas) of Sartell, MN, and Alison Ranae (Preston Crumbaker) of Olathe, KS, grandchildren, one greatgrandchild, and many other extended family members. Doug was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings.

As mom cared for dad these last seven years with a heart pump (LVAD), we are sure he asked many times, “Why me, Lord?” Yet, we witnessed our father walk through his final season with great faith, courage, and strength. Dad was always so grateful to his medical team, his wife, and, of course, his daughter Angie. We are so thankful for the legacy Dad leaves with his family. On April 16th, Douglas took off on his GREATEST adventure!