Douglas G. Hawkinson

Douglas G. Hawkinson obituary, Joliet, IL

Douglas G. Hawkinson

Douglas Hawkinson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Douglas G. Hawkinson
Passed away at his residence with his family by his side, Monday, May 6, 2025 at the age of 79 years.
Doug is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Linda Hawkinson (née Murphy), their children Andrew Hawkinson, Elizabeth Stutte and Steven Hawkinson, and a son-in-law Ray Canole. Proud grandfather to Alex (Chantal) Henze, Brandon (Emilee) Hermann, William Canole, Jackson Hawkinson, Brooklyn Hawkinson, Tessa Stutte, Emily Canole, Callie Hawkinson, and Gabriella Stutte. Doug was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild in November. Two brothers-in-law, a sister-in-law and many nieces and nephews in Minnesota.
He was preceded in death by his parents Gordon and Mary Jo Hawkinson, beloved daughter Susan L. Canole (2020) and grandson Ty A. Hawkinson.
Born on March 9, 1946, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Doug earned his degree in Chemical Engineering from Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, MN. He had a long and successful career, retiring from EcoLab after 25 years of service. Following his retirement, Doug worked for ComEd, where he trained nuclear reactor technicians. Doug was a passionate member and judge of the Kansas City BBQ Society and enjoyed a wide range of hobbies including sailing on White Bear Lake, golfing, skiing, snowmobiling, and cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers as both a fan and shareholder.
Alongside his wife Linda, Doug co-owned and operated Travel Agents International in Naperville. He was a founding member of Messiah Lutheran Church, where he served as building chairman and was known for preparing traditional Swedish meatballs and cod for Scandinavian dinners. He was a proud 45-year member of Matteson Masonic Lodge #175 A.F. & A.M., and also worked as a realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty in Joliet for many years.
Lying in State at Messiah Lutheran Church, 40 Houlbolt Rd., Saturday, May 10th from 9:00 A.M. until time of services at 10:00 A.M. Rev. David Nygard officiating. Memorials to Susan L. Canole Foundation or Messiah Lutheran Church will be appreciated. Visitation will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Friday, May 9th from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Douglas, please visit our Tree Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Douglas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Douglas Hawkinson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Douglas Hawkinson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?