Douglas W. Targett

Douglas Wayne Targett, age 64, at rest on Friday, November 21, 2025.

Doug is preceded in death by his father, Robert Targett; and his father-in-law, Warren Sexton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Debbie Targett; children, Sara (Kent) Kelsey, Brandon Targett, Steven (Jace) Targett; grandchildren, Tristan, Brayden, Kameron and Laynee Kelsey, Aiden and Payton Targett, and Paisley Targett; mother, Barbara Targett(nee Border); sister, Janet Targett; brothers, Robert (Jean) Targett and Paul (Anna) Targett; mother-in-law, Marlene Sexton; brothers and sisters-in-law, Dave (Laurie) Sexton and Bob (Candy) Sexton; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Doug grew up surrounded by his childhood best friends and neighbors, creating cherished memories and forming bonds that stayed with him throughout his life. He attended Merrillville High School, where he was a proud member of the swim team. After graduation, Doug continued his education at Purdue University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Building Construction and Contracting. As meaningful as this achievement was, it was during his senior year at Purdue that Doug experienced one of life’s greatest gifts, meeting the love of his life, Debbie.

Following his graduation, Doug and Debbie were married in 1986 and soon moved to Illinois to begin their life together. Doug went on to build a successful 26-year career as a project manager with Commonwealth Edison. He enjoyed playing racquetball with his co-workers in his early years at ComEd.

Summers were Doug’s favorite time of year, especially the many spent camping at Woodsmoke with his family. He delighted in teaching all the kids how to swim, sitting around the campfire with an Ice House in hand, and gazing up at the stars. When he later found the perfect lake house, those traditions grew even richer. Countless days were spent boating, jet skiing, fishing, and scanning the skies for eagles, often with his loyal dogs—Chippy, Sabre, Pennie, and Nala by his side. Doug also cherished family trips to Florida, where he could be found relaxing on the beach and watching the ocean stretch endlessly before him. He was the kind of person who brought energy and joy wherever he went, Doug could always be found on the dance floor at weddings and was simply a great time to be around.

Doug was a man who could fix anything, and his family relied on that gift often. Whether working in the yard, tinkering in the garage, or sketching out new plans at his table, he approached every project with skill, creativity, and enthusiasm.

His role as a father was one he wore with pride. Doug coached his sons in hockey and baseball and taught all his children patience, kindness, reliability, and the lifelong truth that hard work pays off. Later, he embraced becoming “Papa” with the same joy and devotion, he enjoyed taking his grandkids to the park, as well as playing board games, and card games with his grandchildren every chance he had.

Above all, Doug loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather who will be missed beyond measure.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Doug’s name may be made to the Illinois Cancer Foundation.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Words of remembrance will be held in the funeral home chapel at 3:00 p.m. Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.