James Douglas “Doug” Veteto, Sr., age 73, passed away on August 20, 2026 at his home in St. Elmo, Illinois, surround by those that loved him deeply. Doug’s life was marked by a deep passion for family, sports, hunting, fishing, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him.

Funeral service will be held Monday, August 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pagel Funeral Home, St. Elmo, Illinois. Jim Giffin and PeeWee Denton will be officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Pagel Funeral Home, St. Elmo, Illinois. Burial will take place in Maplewood cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Woo Hoo Sisterhood of PO Box 142, Altamont, Illinois, 62411. Online condolences may be left at www.pagelfuneralhomes.com

Doug was born August 8, 1953, in Effingham, Illinois, the son of Grover C. Veteto and Bulah V. Perry Veteto. He married Sheila D. Williams on August 18, 1972, at the St. Elmo Church of God and together they shared life’s journey through years of joy and togetherness. They enjoyed many cruises, and the last cruise they were able to take with many of the children and grandchildren.

Doug was widely known for his love of sports, a passion that shaped much of his life. He was an enthusiastic athlete, playing softball in three different leagues, where his competitive spirit and camaraderie left a lasting mark on his teammates and friends. Doug was also an avid bowler, participating actively in both the Fedders League and the Clough Trucking League. These experiences brought him not only joy, but also lifelong friendships built through shared victories and perseverance.

A true outdoorsman, Doug found peace and happiness hunting and fishing with his grandchildren. These moments outdoors were cherished, offering opportunities for laughter, connection, and teaching that created lasting family memories. Doug’s commitment to his family was evident in everything he did. He never wanted to miss his grandchildren’s basketball games, baseball games, or track meets, always cheering them on with pride. His influence ran deep, inspiring his grandchildren to follow in his footsteps; under their grandpa’s supportive gaze, they reached new heights and went to state in pole vault, like their grandfather did when he was in high school.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sheila D. Veteto, St. Elmo, Illinois; son, James Douglas "JD" (Jennifer) Veteto, Jr.; daughters, Jennifer “Jill” (Jason) Hill of St. Elmo, Illinois, Jodi Lynn Veteto of St. Elmo, Illinois;, Illinois, eight grandchildren, Lucas Hill, Wyatt Hill, Kevin Miller, Christopher Miller, James Veteto III, Hayden Veteto, Alexis Bell, and Melissa Hoffman; His Little Buddy, great-grandson, Kolter Hill; and one great-grandchild on the way; one brother, Paul (Beverly) Veteto of Kinmundy, Illinois; mother-in-law, Mary Belle Williams of St. Elmo, Illinois; brother-in-law, Brad Williams of St. Elmo, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Sybil Veteto and Phyllis Veteto; several nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Charles, Kenny, Bernard and Joe Veteto.