Douglas Garner Carleton

Douglas Garner Carleton, age 67, of Hager City, Wisconsin, passed away on August 1, 2025.

Doug was born to Robert and Billie Carleton. He grew up in many different places spending most of his time in Good Thunder MN. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1976 to 1982, earning his high school diploma during his time in the military. In 1986, Doug married the love of his life, Deb, in Rochester, Minnesota. The couple moved around to many places, finally settling in the Hager City, WI area to raise their four children; Deliala, Jason, Amber, and Andrew.

As a child Doug and his family would travel to Guatemala and lived there while they were involved in farming. During that time, he became fluent in a strong, regional dialect of Spanish. Doug was known for his adventurous spirit, magnetic personality, and gift for conversation—he could talk to anyone about anything.

Doug especially enjoyed attending Renaissance festivals, where he thrived in the spotlight. One year, he won a Hercules contest that earned them a trip to Florida. He and Debra spent 10 to 15 years attending RenFest and other festivals in and around MN along with their trips to local and national parks including the Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, and Monument Valley. Their last adventure was to Detroit Lakes to see the Trolls. Their love for traveling has always been a great joy within their relationship.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife, Debra; his children: Deliala (Jason) Gaustad, Jason (Chelsea) Carleton, Amber (Phillip Bradley) Carleton, and Andrew (Gina Durgin) Carleton; siblings: Susan Jirele, Margaret Franzen, Stuart (Genette) Carleton, Jacqueline Noy, and Bruce (Diane) Carleton; in-laws: Louis and Patricia Burmester; along with many other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law: Ray Jirele, and Dave Noy. 

A Memorial Service will begin at 11:00am on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Svea Lutheran Church: N2610 770th St, Hager City, WI 54014. A gathering of friends and family will begin at 10:00am until the start of the service.

Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ellsworth. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-273-4421.