Douglas Lee Zerkle

Douglas Lee Zerkle, 73, of Macomb, Illinois (formerly of St. Paris, Ohio), passed away at 10:14 AM Friday, August 16, 2024, at his residence.
Doug was born on December 6, 1950, in Springfield, Ohio, to Howard and Treva (Starr) Zerkle. He married the love of his life, Kathi Nicholas, on October 21, 1990, and together they shared 34 wonderful years. Kathi survives him.
Also surviving are his children, Stacy (Matt) Bowers of St. Paris, Ohio, and Seth (Jessica) Lambert of Macomb, Illinois, along with six beloved grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.
Doug dedicated 30 years of his life to Navistar, where he built trucks. After retiring from Navistar, he continued his journey on the road, driving trucks for another 20 years.
A lifelong farmer, Doug was deeply committed to the ag community. He was a sheep breeder and raised sheep for 4H projects, sharing this passion with his children, grandchildren and the many children he mentored as a 4H Club advisor. Dougs summers were filled with the joy of making hay with his family.
Doug spent many years coaching baseball for his son David and later, took great pleasure in watching his grandchildren excel in their sports and activities. Each year, Doug looked forward to the Champaign County Fair, where he spent countless hours making memories with family and friends.
Doug and Kathi built a loving family together in Ohio for 31 years. After becoming a part of his son Seths farming operation, they made the move to Illinois full-time, where Doug continued to live his passion for farming and driving semis.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his son David, his infant daughter Dawn, and his sisters Carol Clemons and Linda Rowland.
Cremation has been accorded, and a private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook or leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Douglas, please visit our Tree Store.