Douglas Duane Sherman

Douglas Duane Sherman, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on April 26, 2026. Born on November 1, 1936, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Henry Burt and Mary Venette (White) Sherman, Douglas lived a life marked by dedication, creativity, and tireless service to others.

Doug graduated from Thomas Edison High School in Northeast Minneapolis in 1954, where he first met Patricia Handy, the love of his life. Their bond grew during those formative years, culminating in their marriage on October 20, 1956, at Grace Church in Northeast Minneapolis. He furthered his education at the Minneapolis Vocational Trade School, specializing in Drafting and Design.

Doug began his career in residential home design, beginning with Capp Homes in Minneapolis. Alongside Patricia, he raised their two children, Steven and Jean, in Northeast Minneapolis. In 1982, the couple moved to their cherished home on Lobster Lake near Garfield, Minnesota. There, Doug continued his work designing homes for Garfield Lumber and Hilltop Lumber, eventually dedicating the last fifteen years of his career to independent contracting. Known for his expertise, he worked closely with numerous local builders and contractors, creating exquisite designs for homes, cabins, and log homes. As Doug often said, he never felt like he worked a day in his life because he loved what he did so much.

Beyond his professional achievements, Doug was a man of great character and heart. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was deeply dedicated to his family, his work, and his community. A passionate woodworker, Doug spent countless hours creating veteran flag cases, urns, cabinets, and other finely crafted pieces, each reflecting his skill and heartfelt commitment.

Throughout his life, Doug exemplified service and camaraderie. He was a proud and active member of the Alexandria Masonic Lodge Constellation 81, Alexandria Osman Shriners, and the Order of the Eastern Star, undertaking many leadership roles. A highlight of his community involvement was driving the Shriner’s Motorhome with the Calliope in parades for many years, bringing joy and encouragement to countless onlookers. His dedication to the Shriners Children’s Hospital was deep and enduring, where he offered warmth and affection to the children receiving care.

Doug and Patricia enjoyed spending seventeen winters in Mission, Texas, where they made many friends over those years. He was also a faithful member of the United Methodist Church in Alexandria, reflecting a lifelong commitment to faith and fellowship.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 69 years, Patricia Sherman of Garfield; his son, Steven Sherman and daughter-in-law Julie of Garfield; his daughter, Jean Sherman of Vadnais Heights; grandchildren Bailey Shay (Abbey Husband) of Phoenix, Arizona; Maggie Steen and her husband Jared of Moorhead; Colton Sherman and his fiancé Emma Hughes of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; great-grandchildren Norah and Otto Steen of Moorhead; and many nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory dearly.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.

Douglas Duane Sherman’s legacy endures in the homes he designed, the family he nurtured, and the communities he served with dedication and love. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Doug’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Masonic Lodge, 205 6th Ave. E. Alexandria, MN with visitation beginning at 5:30 PM and a Masonic Service at 6:30 PM. Refreshments to follow.