It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas Gorden Sterr Sr., a cherished father, grandfather, husband, and proud U.S. Veteran, who peacefully left us on December 17, 2024, at the age of 80.
Born on January 10, 1944, in American Falls, Idaho to Christian Joseph Sterr and Carmen Martha Torres. He attended Aberdeen High School for his freshman and sophomore years and completed high school at St. Gertrude’s Academy in Cottonwood, Idaho.
Doug served his country with distinction as a Jet Engine Mechanic in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1962-1966. His courage and commitment to his country reflected the deep sense of duty that defined his life. After his military service, Doug continued to live by the values of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice, qualities that touched everyone around him.
His focus in life then shifted to gaining an education. He attended Delaware Tech to become an electronic technician. He also attended Idaho State University where he obtained a degree in laser technology. He was employed at Atlantic Aviation in Wilmington, DE, Dent Volkswagen, Idaho Falls, ID, Skyline Volkswagen, Pocatello, ID, AVB Auto in Fairbanks, AK, Landvatter Motors, Aberdeen, ID, and Doug’s Service Center, Aberdeen, ID, before settling into his career at BLM/NIFC in Boise, ID.
He married Linda Duncan on October 1 st , 1966. Together they had one daughter, Rebecca. They later divorced. He later married Teresa Barrus on August 19 th , 1975. Together they built a life filled with love, respect, and shared memories. As a father, he was a constant source of support, guidance, and strength to his children, always putting family first. His children will forever remember his wisdom, his humor, and his unwavering presence in their lives.
Doug was known for his hard work, humility, and patriotism. He was fiercely loyal to his country and fellow servicemen. He loved aircraft of all kinds, and his hobbies included building model planes. He also enjoyed working as a leader in the Boy Scouts of America, woodworking, gardening/landscaping, and tinkering. Doug was a man who could fix anything.
He is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Sterr, Meridian, ID., his children, Rebecca (Mike) Henry, Doug Sterr Jr., Kimberly Smith, Shawna Greaves, Jessica (Jeremy) McCall, Lorrie (Chris) Hall, his 16 grandchildren, his sister, Christine Sanders, and many dear relatives and friends. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and family will remain in the hearts of all who know him.
A memorial service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1950 South Locust Grove Rd., Meridian, Idaho on January 13 th , 2025. The family will receive guests from 9:00 AM until 9:45 AM with memorial service at 10:00 AM. He will be interred at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery with military honors at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the DAV in honor of his service and dedication.
To attend Doug’s service virtually, please visit https://www.youtube.com/live/7C40iSA3K3E?si=qXqcfaJGQgZhFx_0
Doug’s memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons taught, and the love he so generously gave. Rest in peace, Dad, Grandpa, and Hero.