Douglas Ondler

Douglas Lee Ondler, age 75, of Rochester, MN passed away October 8th, 2023 at his home.

Doug was born July 12, 1948, to Lyle and Shirley (Streiff) Ondler in Rochester, MN. As a first-generation post-secondary graduate, he went on to earn a Bachelors and a Master's Degree from Winona State University. On August 21st, 1970, he married the love of his life, Nancy Kranz in Rochester, MN. Together they traveled often and created cherished memories. They were blessed to enjoy 52 years of marriage together.

Doug proudly taught in the Rochester Public School District from 1979 to 2006, in fact he loved teaching so much he continued as a substitute teacher. Doug shared his love of the outdoors by teaching sports biology, archery, trap shooting and taxidermy. He took his students on countless outdoor adventures including an annual favorite to the Boundary Waters. Doug also was a volunteer at Mayo Clinic for 12 years. He enjoyed meeting and helping others in their times of need.

No matter the season, Doug could always be found enjoying the outdoors where he enjoyed solitude and peace. He was an avid outdoors man and always had great stories to tell. He all around loved nature and his gardens were his pride and joy.

Doug always loved his dogs. Throughout the years he had several golden retrievers. After Nancy's passing, he and his faithful best friend Hia went everywhere together.

Doug had a heart of gold. He was kind and generous to everyone he met. Those fortunate enough to have known him have been encouraged and inspired to live their best life.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Nancy, his parents Lyle and Shirley Ondler; and two brothers Rick Ondler and Tom Ondler.

He is survived by siblings Barbara Funk (Kevin) Mazeppa, Sharon Day (Mike) Rochester, and Rodney Dale Ondler (Cody, Wyoming), a special brother-in-law Ray Kranz and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Friday October 27, 2023 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl. NW Rochester, MN 55901) and one hour prior to the service. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home. Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Doug Ondler was a long-time supporter of the Rochester Alternative Learning Center. If you would like to make a donation to the ALC in his memory, you can drop off or mail a check made out to the Rochester Alternative Learning Center (37 Woodlake Dr. SE, Rochester, MN 55904). Please note in the memo line: "Donation in Doug Ondler's Memory.'" Donations will go towards supporting ALC Student Of The Month quarterly celebrations and student trips off site in nature.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Ondler family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com