Douglas Marvin Cardinal

Douglas Marvin Cardinal, age 80, of Rush City, passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Minneapolis after a courageous battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and other health complications. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Douglas lived a full life marked by hard work, resilience, and a sharp sense of humor.

Born on November 8, 1944, to Lawrence and Helen (Lange) Cardinal, Douglas grew up in Osseo, Minnesota. He was drafted into the United States Army on February 14, 1966 and bravely served in the Vietnam War, an experience he often reflected on with vivid stories and pride.

On June 27, 1964, Douglas married the love of his life, Dianne, at the Catholic Church. Together, Douglas and Dianne lived in Osseo and Princeton before settling in Rush City, where Douglas built their dream home on Rush Lake. Their 60-year marriage was filled with laughter, adventure, and enduring love. Dianne preceded him in death just seven months earlier, and their bond remained unbroken until the very end.

Douglas was a man of many talents and interests. He founded Cardinal Construction and also worked as a heavy equipment operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49. Whether constructing his Quonset building, working on a project, or running equipment, Douglas was always busy with something and loved putting his hands to good use.

An avid collector, he was proud of his ever-growing collection of cars, motorcycles, tractors, and other equipment and toys. Auctions were one of his favorite pastimes, always in search of a great deal — which he would joyfully brag about to anyone who would listen. He enjoyed playing Poker, Texas Hold ‘Em, and Cribbage with his card buddies, and he loved visiting the Grand Casino in Hinckley. Douglas also had a cabin on Rush Lake, where he fished, boated, and cruised on the pontoon with family and friends.

Known for his sense of humor and storytelling, Douglas had a unique way of bringing people together. He could make anyone laugh, often poking fun with a mischievous grin. He was a devoted husband, a proud father to Todd, Theresa, and Becky, a loving grandfather to ten grandchildren, and a great-grandfather to six. He was always there when someone needed a hand, a ride, or a reason to smile.

Douglas was a fighter, having overcome cancer three times and facing every health challenge and injury with grit and determination. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, courage, and a life well lived.

Douglas found comfort in his faith and trusted in God’s promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ, and now rests peacefully in His eternal embrace. He had such a love for Diet Coke that his family considered burying him with a can—just in case they don’t stock it in Heaven.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.

Douglas is survived by his children Todd (Heidi), Theresa, and Becky; grandchildren Courtney, Dominick (Alli), Alex, Madison, Hannah (Justin), Isaiah, Kiana, Marshall (Kaylee), Cheyenne, and Sierra; great-grandchildren Matthew, Carter, Mason, Jace, Haven, Adalee; brother Larry (Joan); sisters-in-law Jean (Tim), Gloria; nephew Brent (Shannon); nieces Pam (Gary), Laurie, Kathy (Dan), Denise (Bill), Danelle, Debra (Joel), Dyane (Winford); friend Dennis; as well as many other family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Helen; wife Dianne; father-in-law and mother-in-law Leverne and Audrey; brother Dennis; brother-in-law Marvin; and sister-in-law Janet.

To honor and celebrate Douglas' life, a visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 5:00-6:00 PM, all at the Olson Funeral Chapel in Rush City.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City, Olson Chapel.
www.FuneralAndCremationService.com