Carl Duane Sahlberg, 59, passed away Dec. 27 at Harney District Hospital due to complications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Carl was born May 29, 1960, in Burns to George and Garnett Sahlberg. Carl was very involved in astronomy, having his own telescope and many books related to the heavens. He had a keen interest in America and his desire was to visit each of the lower 48 states. After attending the 10th grade, he started fulfilling his wish and began hitchhiking  around the country. Twelve years later, he had realized this goal. During this time, he settled in Baltimore, Md. for five years, followed by nine years in San Francisco, Calif., where he worked as a fork lift driver in a warehouse. After being injured on the job, he moved to Portland, where he remained until last year when he returned to Burns because of his poor health.

In addition to his interest in astronomy, his hobbies included reading, collecting rocks and minerals, fishing, and playing cribbage.

Carl is survived by his father and stepmother, George and Joyce Sahlberg; and his mother, Garnett, of Lee’s Summit, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his sister in 2011; stepmother, Hilda, in 2011; and stepmother, Pearl, in 2017. His pet and companion, Crom, also passed away two years ago.

His request was to be cremated, with his ashes spread near Five Mile Dam. A memorial service will be held at a later date.