Douglas Lee Kjellerup

Douglas Lee Kjellerup
October 20, 2025
Douglas Lee Kjellerup, was called to his heavenly home on October 20, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on April 23, 1941, in Graceville, Minnesota, Doug was the son of Leo and Ardell Kjellerup, both of whom, along with his sister Connie Kelly and son Todd Kjellerup, preceded him in death. He departed this earthly realm in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.
Doug's educational journey was marked by a commitment to learning and excellence. He earned his Associate of Arts from the North Dakota State School of Science (now North Dakota State College of Science) in 1961 and went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Minnesota at Morris in 1972.
Professionally, Doug demonstrated integrity and was not afraid of hard work. His career with Otter Tail Power Company spanned over four decades, beginning in Morris, MN on December 4, 1962, as a cashier, and quickly becoming an accountant and auditor. In 1972 he transferred to the home office in Fergus Falls, MN. His leadership skills were recognized as he became a supervisor for employee training on September 7, 1976. With each role, from Manager of Control & Budget on August 1, 1978, to Director of Strategic Planning on June 1, 1985, he left his mark. Doug's commitment to the OTP vision propelled him to the position of Vice President of Planning and Development on April 1, 1991, followed by roles as VP of Marketing & Development, COO and VP of Marketing/Development, culminating in the office of President on February 1, 2002. Doug also generously shared his expertise as a member of the Board of Directors for Mid-States Development, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the community.
Doug lived his faith through his actions and words. His life was a testament to the values of compassion, service, and love that are at the heart of the Christian doctrine. He believed in the power of prayer and music, the strength of fellowship and family of all descriptions, and the endless grace of God.
Doug's interests reflected his rich inner world and his love for the arts. He was a poet at heart, a lover of music, and an avid book collector. Doug joyfully spent his summers pulling multiple generations of water skiers, sharing his love for the lake. These passions brought him great joy and were a source of connection with his family and friends who describe him as selfless and passionate.
He is survived and lovingly remembered by: the mother of his children, Karen Toso, their children, Sherri (Gordon) Heser and their children: Tyler (Lyndee) Heser and their two children, Parker (Kelsey) Heser and their child, and Ethan (Nicole) Heser and their two children: Kyle (Karen) Kjellerup and their children Cory (Eh Lawra) Boone and their four children; Derek (Angela) Boone with their two children, Casey (Don) Charette Boone, and Estefan (Daisy) Kjellerup and their six children; Kevin (Jennifer) Kjellerup and their children Catherine and Finley; and Doug's former spouse, Jan Kjellerup, together with her children, Sarah (Cory) Donnay and their four children Madison, Andrew, Chloe and Jordynn, and Ben Froslee.
Doug's legacy will live on through his loved ones, who will continue to honor his memory by embodying the values he held dear.
We bid farewell to Doug with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with him. His spirit, marked by generosity and a deep-seated passion for life, will forever be etched in the memories of those who loved him. Doug's journey on earth has ended, but his story will continue to be told by the lives he touched and the love he spread. May he rest in peace in the loving embrace of our Lord.
Visitation: 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls. Visitation will resume one-hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial Service: 10 a.m. Monday, November 3, 2025 at First Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls.
Clergy: Reverend Kate Bruns
Interment: Valley View Cemetery, Browns Valley, MN
Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.
Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com