Douglas Peterson

Douglas Robert Peterson, age 72, of Galesburg, IL, formerly of Maple Park, IL, passed into his Heavenly home at 10:57 p.m. on August 17, 2017 at the Rosewood Care Center in Galesburg, IL, where he had recently made his home. Although he had his share of struggles, Doug passed in God’s own time now enjoys the peace that passes all understanding in his eternal home.
He was born on August 29, 1944, in DeKalb, IL, to the proud parents, Robert G. and Floy (Heath) Peterson.
Doug grew up in Elburn and attended local schools.
Doug married Shirley Jean Powel on December 31, 1966. She was the love of his life. They were blessed with three daughters, Kathy Jean, Debra Jean and later Jessica made the family complete. Tragedy struck when they lost Shirley at age 28, in July of 1973 breaking his heart, but never his spirit.
Doug was later married to Gloria Repp and they were blessed with his third daughter, Jessica. In time, Doug and Gloria went their separate ways.
He began his career at Wheaton Engineering where he worked alongside his father, Robert Peterson, and began his training to become a machinist. Doug went on to perfect his talent as a gifted machinist at Carlson Tool and then later at Mar-Free Industry where he was highly respected and was proud to pass on his knowledge, teaching many his beloved craft.
In 2005, Doug found himself in the position to save a life, and save it he did. On May 5, 2005, he became one of eighteen heroes nationwide, receiving the Carnegie Medal for Extraordinary Acts of Heroism. Doug saved the life of a 90 year old woman who was stuck in her car that had been stranded on the railroad tracks. With literally only seconds to spare, Doug pulled her to safety before the train slammed into her car. Though he became a hero that day, Doug let the praise slide from his shoulders, preferring to remain humble and grateful that he could help. The full story can be found on the link www.mychfc.org.
No matter where Doug found himself, he found himself surrounded by friends. He was loved by all who crossed his path. Doug’s gentle soul, positive energy, infectious sense of humor and friendly teasing made him a favorite not only at Rosewood, but wherever he called home. He loved to fish, especially when he could cast his line at the family cottage in Lac du Flambeau, WI. He was a talented gunsmith, marksman and loved to build remote control airplanes that would soar across the sky. His family was Doug’s most precious possession. He was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, grandpa and great-grandpa. Doug’s heart may have been full, but there was always room for his favorite pets.
He now leaves his mother, Floy V. Peterson Puccetti and her husband Raymond Puccetti; three daughters: Kathy (Roger) Ackerman, Debra (Ken) Sopiak and Jessica Peterson; one sister, Janice A. (Peterson-Overhaug) Cleary; a brother, David Peterson; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Doug touched the lives of many, making friends in all walks of life, especially his devoted friend, Mark Mendel.
He was preceded in death by his beloved “Shirl”, his father Robert Peterson and one grandson, Brandon Ackerman.
Private cremation burial has already occurred.

Private cremation burial has already occurred.