Douglas E. Kavanaugh

Douglas E. Kavanaugh, 86, of Mackinaw, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 26, 1939, in Peoria to Harry and Ann (Venovich) Kavanaugh. He married Judith Mattocks on February 9, 1962, in Peoria. She preceded him in death on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

He is survived by sons; Steven D. Kavanaugh and Matthew D. Kavanaugh, daughter; Jana Lea (Kevin) Montgomery, five grandchildren; Brianna Swanton, Tyler Montgomery, Christopher D. Kavanaugh, Quinten D. Kavanaugh, and Kayla Kavanaugh; three great grandchildren, Carter D. Kavanaugh, Dean Swanton, and Sophia Swanton.

Doug worked and retired from Caterpillar after 30 years as a transmission specialist. He then went on to be a Gunsmith for 30 more years, which he was passionate about and retired just last year. Doug loved anything to do with the outdoors, hunting, fishing, trap and skeet shooting, and growing his vegetables in his garden. In addition, for 20 years Doug worked as Matthew’s Sprint Car crew chief, supervising all aspects of the races. During his down time, he would read firearms books and magazines or watch the outdoor channel and cooking shows. Doug was remembered for cooking his spaghetti and meatballs, mash, hash, mock chicken legs, omelets with spam, and many other signature dishes.

Douglas was preceded by one son, Douglas E. Kavanaugh II, and his sister, Judith Schamer.

His funeral will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at Mackinaw Christian Church.  Pastor Stephanie Himmel will officiate.  Visitation will be from 9:30-10:45 a.m. on Friday at the church.  Burial will be in Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw. Memorial donations may be made to the Mackinaw Rescue Squad. 

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