With much sadness, we announce the passing of Douglas E. Carpenter, age 74, of Belleville, IL on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
Doug was born on March 11, 1951, in East St. Louis, IL, to Edward and Doris, nee Cleveland, Carpenter and then raised in Belleville, IL. He graduated from Belleville East High School and Southern Illinois University Carbondale with a bachelor’s degree in biology. Doug eventually joined his family in the Lake of the Ozarks area. He returned to Belleville, IL, about 15 years ago to live with his partner, Helen.
Doug was a loving, easy-going companion and partner to Helen for the last 23 years and a doting, proud grandfather to Owen. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and waterfowl hunting, especially turkey. He will be remembered for his gentle kindness and his lighthearted sense of humor. Doug believed in living simply, walking gently on the earth, and taking the time to appreciate life's small joys. A friend to all, Doug will be deeply missed and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Doris Carpenter; a sister, Leslie Shroba; and his brother, Phil Carpenter.
Doug is survived and mourned by his life partner, Helen Thompson; his bonus daughter, Sarah (Scott) Larkin; his grandson, Owen Larkin; a sister, Fran (Oscar) Jones; his sister-in-law, Lisa Carpenter; his brother-in-law, Steve Shroba; and his nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends.
A special thank you is extended to Hospice of Southern Illinois and lifelong friends Brian and Joyce Smallwood.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois, Ducks Unlimited or the donor's choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 29, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: An opportunity to share memories will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 29, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
