Douglas Jaeger

Douglas Jaeger, 82, of Beach Park, IL, passed away peacefully at home last week. Born in Minnesota, Doug moved to Wisconsin as an infant, where he grew up and developed the deep- rooted values of family, service, faith, and a love of the outdoors (and brats) that would guide his life.

Doug attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison from 1960 to 1967, earning a degree in chemical engineering followed by a master’s degree in biochemistry and microbiology. During this time, he was introduced to his future wife, Barbara, and an instant connection was sparked. They went on to eat dinner together every night while at the university. She remained to Doug’s last day, the highlight of his life.

After UW-Madison, Doug and Barb moved to “Far Southern Wisconsin” (really northern Illinois, but Doug, a Wisconsinite through and through, rarely admitted that). There, Doug began what would become a 35-year career at Abbott Laboratories. A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Doug spent many evenings over the next six years earning his MBA from Loyola University, all while working full-time.

Doug lived a life of quiet leadership, service, and deep devotion to others. He participated in multiple professional societies, including the Society for Industrial Microbiology for which he was elected president. Doug also served over 30 years on the Lake County Public Water District board and was a devoted member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he and Barb sang in the choir for many years. Doug regularly brought thoughtful stewardship and scientific insight to his community. He completed science demonstrations in his children’s classrooms, helped his neighbors without being asked, and was always ready to lend a hand or tool to a friend or stranger. He also traveled frequently for work and pleasure, and cherished many vacations with Barb and his children.

In his spare time, Doug found great joy in the outdoors—especially the hunting and fishing traditions passed down to him by his father. Fishing trips to Canada, moose and grouse hunting adventures, and many years of deer hunting in Wisconsin with his father, his children, and close friends remained some of his most treasured memories. Doug was also quite the collector. One of his most prized collections was his old model trains, which he carefully curated and proudly displayed over the years and which remain on display at the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club. His love for trains reflected his deep appreciation for detail, history, and the simple joy of watching something meaningful come to life.

Doug is survived by his loving wife, Barb, with whom he shared a joyful and steadfast marriage. He was a devoted father to Jeff (Anne) and Andrea (Scott), and a proud grandfather to Ava, Calder, Will, and Amelia, and covered his home office with their artwork and crafts. Doug is also survived by his siblings Dave, Jenny, and Janice, and was preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Marcella.

Whether out in the woods or on the water, walking the neighborhood, or gathered around the dinner table with family, Doug was at his best when surrounded by the people and places he loved most. He will be remembered for his gentle strength, warm spirit, wealth of knowledge on numerous subjects, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to his family, his community, and the natural world.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love and kindness he gave so freely. A public visitation will be held at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL 60099 on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jahn of Redeemer Lutheran Church officiating. A private burial will occur following the service.

In lieu of providing flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in memory of Doug to any of the following or a preferred charity of your choice:

Redeemer Lutheran Church (by check): 620 W Grove Ave, Waukegan, IL 60085

Mayo Clinic

Engineering Education Foundation of America