Born: October 5, 1948 - Deceased: July 25, 2024
On July 25th, 2024, Douglas Peterson (75), loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully in Freeburg, Illinois.
Douglas was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elaine, his uncle Ralph and his niece, Amanda.
He is survived by his wife, Norma; his children, Julie and Paul. His siblings, Andrew (Jackie) Peterson; Christine (John)Brown; Jackie (John) Sweeden, and Jessica Sculley. His sisters and brothers-in-law, Patricia (Jeff) Peck; Ron (Jackie) Reis, Phil Reis(Karol), and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins. He will be greatly missed by his two devoted pets, Parker and Ninjette, and his many dear friends who have been so supportive and comforting to him.
Douglas was raised in Minnesota and joined the United States Air Force after high school. He received his MBA from Webster University. Doug went to officers training school and became a pilot, a flight instructor and in civilian life, a commercial pilot, flying people and cargo. He loved his job and could tell and re-tell many stories of his adventures around the world.
In his retirement, he worked part-time at Southwestern Illinois College, with the pilot training program, sharing his tips and knowledge with future pilots. Doug loved to read manuals, cookbooks and follow a check list. He freely shared his know-how, his problem-solving skills and his baking with friends and family. Doug enjoyed many simple things in life, such as, spending time with his family and friends, walking his dogs, going to the YMCA, meeting at the coffee shop and playing cards. Over the years he was a tractor driver at Eckert’s, the Easter bunny and sometimes even helped Santa!
He will be greatly missed and remembered in our hearts.
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the Belleville Area Humane Society or charity of choice.
Funeral: Douglas will be returning to Minnesota for his final resting place. There will be a family graveside service August 16th, 11:30 a.m. with Military honors.
Celebration of Life: October 5, 2024, 1-5 p.m. at the Mascoutah Steakhouse, 1415 McKinley St., Mascoutah, Illinois. Friends are invited to come and join Doug’s family for storytelling, fellowship, game, food, and music.
3 Comments
It has been an honor, privilege and pleasure to have known Doug as my friend. He was loved by all whom had the opportunity to spend time with him whether it be a child or adult. He had the uncanny gift to become a friend to everyone. Have to say his baking abilities were phenomenal! He will always be in my heart.
Sorry to hear about Doug. I know he was suffering so I’m sure it’s a blessing now. He was a great guy as I have known him and fun to talk to about his adventures around the world. He will be missed for sure. RIP DP
Doug was a very special man who was fairly quiet in a group but very witty and comical! I will always remember playing euchre with him at the Mascoutah Steakhouse and especially cards and games this past St. Patty’s Day where he bested us all! Thank you for your service to the USAF and for being a great friend to all those around you! You are in a better place now but your wit and humor will be missed!