Douglas "Doug" Raethz

Douglas (Doug) Raethz passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on August 19th. He was 67 years old.

Doug was born in Faulkton, South Dakota, on September 20, 1957, to Ken and Helen Raethz (Bisbee). He attended school in both Faulkton and Cresbard, SD. In 1976, he moved from South Dakota to the Chicagoland area, where he met Kim Smuda (Sherretz). Two years later, in 1978, Doug and Kim married. Together they built a life in Carol Stream, IL, where they raised their family.

Doug was deeply involved in his children's lives, always coaching, volunteering, and offering his support whenever he could. He rarely missed a sporting event or competition, cheering proudly for his children and grandchildren from the sidelines. Doug's kindness and loyalty made him a close friend to many, and he cared deeply for both friends and family. Most people who met him quickly became his friend, a testament to the warmth and generosity he carried throughout his life.

Doug dedicated more than 30 years to FedEx in the Chicagoland area, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and easy friendships with coworkers, before returning to South Dakota in 2010. He enjoyed music, playing cribbage, and hunting, and will be remembered for the joy he found in simple traditions and the time he spent sharing them with family and friends. Charity was important to Doug, and he regularly supported causes close to his heart, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

He is survived by his children Jim (Jen) Raethz, Michelle (Bryan) Shelley, Christopher (Kristee) Raethz, and Marisa (Nate) Raethz; seven grandchildren, Olivia (25), Brianna (21), Grayson (16), Austin (15), Logan (14), Layla (14), and Mickayla (14); and his former wife, Kim (Jim) Smuda. He is also survived by his siblings Ron (Francine), Roger (Janet), Cindy (Tom), Thomas (Betty), Kristi, Mike (Pete), and brother in law Dave Ortmeier as well as many nieces and nephews with whom he was very close.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Helen Raethz, his sister Judy Ortmeier, and his brother-in-law John Young.

Memorial services will be held in both Illinois and South Dakota, with details to be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543.

For information: 630/554-3888 or www.dunnfuneralhome@aol.com