Obituary of Douglas Anthony Scholla

       Douglas Anthony Schola "Doug", 76, passed away comfortably in his home on November 3, 2025, surrounded by family. Born December 5, 1948, in Willmar, MN, Doug was the third of five children of Nick and Erlene (Brede) Scholla. Doug was known for his generosity, his singing voice, and the good will he earnestly shared with all those that he met.  

       Raised on a farm north of Hector, MN, Doug developed a hearty work ethic and a passion for nature. He graduated from Hector High School in 1966 and received a BA in Education from Augsburg College. Doug enjoyed singing in the Augsburg College Choir and as a member of the Cabaret Singers.  

      As a college senior, he met Christine (Chris) Wegner on a blind date, and they were married September 4, 1971, in Little Falls, MN. Doug taught 7th and 10th grade science in Watertown, MN and then became a high school principal in Gonvick, MN for one year. After his time in education, Doug transitioned into insurance sales and management; he worked as an insurance agent for many different companies over the years, founding Scholla Insurance in 1995 where he devoted himself to his Waconia, MN community for the rest of his life. In 2008 he partnered with his son, Tim, and over the last few years has gradually, but proudly, passed on ownership.  

        Doug loved laughter, ice cream, and singing, which he graciously shared with anyone in his vicinity. He cared deeply for his Faith and Lutheran Church community, contributing as a choir member, soloist, church council representative, and various other boards over the years.  

       When not at the office of Scholla Insurance, Doug could be found lovingly cultivating the beautiful and inviting landscape of his property on the shore of Lake Burandt and later his cabin on Prairie Lake. For some, yard maintenance is just another chore, but Doug elevated it into an art form - his most cherished way of communing with the beauty of nature and his Creator. He admired and held trees, birds, and the abundance of the earth in highest regard. Lawn mowing was his JOY.  

       Doug was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud “Papa”. He was loved and respected by his community. He will be sorely missed and long remembered by the many he loved and served.  

       Doug is cherished by his loving family: wife Chris; children Heidi, Tim (Tia), and Kate (John); grandchildren Brooke, James, Haley, Adair, Meredith, and Renee; siblings Larry – passed away 2024 - (Muriel) Scholla, Gary (Carol) Scholla, Nancy Nelson, Gary Nelson, Steve (Linda) Scholla; and many beloved nieces and nephews.  

The service will be live streamed on the Waconia Faith Lutheran Church YouTube Channel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society.