He was born on February 11, 1953, in Springfield, IL, the son of Duane and Patricia Slater. He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Cathy, along with their sons, Ben (April) of Denver, CO and Chris (Meagan) of Lafayette, CO, and their children, Blake and Reese Slater of Denver, CO, Luke and Graham Slater of Lafayette, CO, and a bundle of nieces and nephews and in-laws.
His sister, Susan (Phillip) of Rochester, MN, also survives.
Doug graduated from Springfield Southeast High School and earned a business degree from Millikin University in 1975. He was a successful high school and college swimmer who carried his competitive spirit and work ethic into his family’s business, Garretson Lumber/TrussSlater in Virden, IL.
For most of his weekend life, he could be found sailboat racing on Lake Springfield and in other competitive regattas. A good clean grill and an Illini win brought him great joy, along with a quality game of Euchre, golf with his buddies, poking a campfire, leading a hike up a hill or skiing down a mountain, and teasing his grandkids, nieces and nephews relentlessly.
The family will host a Celebration of Doug’s Life from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, followed by a Memorial Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 321 South 7th St., Springfield, IL.
Memorial contributions may be made to the IBYC Sailing Foundation, 76 Yacht Club Road or Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 East Lake Shore Drive, both in Springfield, IL 62712.
Funeral arrangements are being made by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.
Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer condolences and share memories.
