Douglas John Kerkman, 63, of Algonquin, died suddenly on February 1, 2024, in his home.
Doug was born in Elgin on May 24, 1961, to parents Roger and Gayle (nee Meyers) Kerkman. He met Polly Becker in college and the couple were married on September 28, 1985. Doug loved his family and shared his larger-than-life sense of humor with them. He had a special bond with his granddaughter Sydnie, and he loved to rough house with her. Doug made friends everywhere he went, including his home in Door County and from spending winters in Key West. He was the life of the party and truly brought the party with him! Doug was a strong leader to his family and his friends, as well as at his company. He was a proud member of Vistage CEO Network Executive Coaching and was an excellent coach. He was a kind, generous, and positive man who will be missed dearly by all who knew him. CMF Boulder Boys! Cheers!
Doug is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Polly Kerkman, his children, Brad (Megan) Kerkman and Emilie (Jay) Stadtfeld, his granddaughter, Sydnie, his siblings, Barb Fox, Mike (Misty) Kerkman, and Scott (Jenn) Kerkman, many nieces and nephews, countless friends, and his business family.
A celebration of Doug’s life will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at:
Boulder Ridge Country Club
350 Boulder Drive
Lake in the Hills, IL 60156
Please come dressed to support Doug’s favorite team, the Green Bay Packers.
In lieu of flowers, in honor of Doug, please make a donation to one of the following:
Dundee Crown Boys Golf or Boys Basketball Team
1500 Kings Road, Carpentersville, IL 60110
Door County Food Pantry
131 S. 3rd Avenue
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235.
For further information please contact the DeFiore Funeral Home 847-515-8772
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So sorry to hear of Doug's passing. Spent many hours on the golf course with Doug over the last 20 + years. Always had many laughs on and off the course. Thoughts and prayers for the family. Doug will be missed.
We are so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. Lots of fond memories of him and the Kerkman family. Keeping Polly and family in our thoughts and prayers.
Polly sort for your loss my prayers for you and your family
Condolences to his family and to his sister Barb.
Polly, my deepest and most sincere condolences to you and your whole family... there are no words... prayers my friend...
Polly, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you and your family.
Polly , Brad, Emily and everyone else from the Kerkman family… I love you guys. Doug was one of the best people I have ever met and instantly treated me like family since the first day I met him. So many good times and memories with him and you all over the years. I’ll never forget his sense of humor, kindness, and personality. Sending thoughts and prayers your way. ❤️ Ryan
I am so sorry for your loss Doug was a wonderful man and I know how much he loved his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I met Doug at Beker and associates 20+ years ago. I am so sorry to hear that he passed. He was a great man he would always make me laugh. When I talk to him my thoughts and prayers to his family he will be missed!!!
I am so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. I have so many cherished memories of our Claymont Ct. family and the countless number of times my phone rang after the Packers beat the Bears.
Our deepest condolences, Doug will be sorely missed. Love and light to you all during this difficult time.
Polly and Family, I was so very sad to hear of Doug's passing. I know I haven't spent a lot of time with all of you, but when I did, it was so enjoyable and yes, Doug was the life of the party. I will never forget Key West (for several reasons!) and am so happy I have that memory of you both. It was my first trip there and it was so much fun! I enjoyed you both being in Greenville, and when you couldn't come it was fun to talk with you on speaker phone! I will miss Doug and his vibrant and contagious personality and absolute zest for life. There is no doubt that he lived his life to the fullest. Sending much love and prayers for comfort in the days ahead, Becca
Polly, Cathy and I send our deepest condolences to you and the family. We truely cherise the time spent with y'all over the years. Doug was a truely kind soul who we we lucky to have known. They say your lucky to count five true friends on your hand, well one finger just went down. All our love....R.I.P my friend.
My condolences to the Kerkman Family and friends. I was fortunate to have many terrific meetings and business luncheons and golf outings with Doug over the years Polly. Also, being born in Green Bay and a season ticket holder since 1963, we always found time to talk about and brag about Packer football. Doug will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers to the Kerkman Family and friends. Sincerely, Mike Thomas
Sending our love and deepest sympathies to all of Doug’s family. I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. He was such a great guy and will be missed by so many. Our love to you all during this difficult time.
Although I never met Doug's family, I want to pass on my deepest condolences to each. Nothing I can say will ease the hurt and pain you have right now. I hope you are at least able to find comfort knowing how many people's lives Doug touched, and how how much he was liked by each one of those people. I know how much he enjoyed his family, and just life in general. Now is the time you wish life had a pause button, but since life doesn't pause, I pray that you are able to find peace and comfort in the coming days. It truly is a sad day as Doug will be missed by so many.