Stephen Braden McDougle

1974 - 2025

STEPHEN BRADEN McDOUGLE

September 8, 1974 – September 26, 2025

Stephen Braden McDougle, 51, of Bakersfield, California, passed away on September 26, 2025. He was a much-loved son, brother, uncle, and friend who will be deeply missed.

Stephen was a 1992 graduate of East Bakersfield High School. He was bright, creative, and known for his wonderful sense of humor. A multigenerational professional in the oil fields, he worked in various positions, including driller, and earned numerous proficiency certificates. He later served as a service manager for a pool company before opening his own pool maintenance business. He was also a licensed locksmith.

In his youth, Stephen's mischievous nature led to many memorable adventures, including the time he boldly climbed onto a found horse during a camping trip-only to be promptly bucked off. As an adult, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling to Munich and was thrilled to visit Neuschwanstein Castle. Stephen will be remembered as a generous and caring brother. He always went out of his way to help others, whether picking up groceries or driving six hours in the middle of the night to rescue a sibling stranded in the desert. He had a knack for understanding difficult subjects with ease, was a compassionate lover of animals, and had a smile that could light up a room.

Stephen was preceded in death by his mother, Christina L. Kloth Smith. Stephen is survived by his father, Bill McDougle (Cris Reep), Florence, OR; sister, Jennifer McDougle (Chris O'Donnell), Paso Robles, CA; brother, Christopher Bowersox, Bakersfield; sister, Laurie Smith, Greenville, IL.; nieces Shayleen Lewis (Mitchell), Greenville, IL and Eryn Smith, Nashville, IL; and nephew Michael Smith, Greenville, IL.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Tree Foundation of Kern.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal." – Irish Proverb

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