Douglas A. Barnett

Age 77, a lifelong resident of Joliet, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday afternoon, March 5, 2026, as the result of a motor vehicle accident in Beaver Dam, Kentucky.

Born January 9, 1949, in Joliet, Douglas Alan Barnett was the son of Donald and Nettie (Brandon) Barnett. He was raised in Joliet and graduated from Joliet West High School with the Class of 1967.

Doug was currently employed with Tyson Foods as an over-the-road truck driver, a career he truly enjoyed because it allowed him the opportunity to see the country.

Nothing brought Doug greater joy than racing and NASCAR. His love for the sport began at the age of four when his father took him to his first Indianapolis 500 race, a tradition he continued throughout his life, never missing another. The race was more than an event for Doug, it was a cherished time spent reconnecting with friends he affectionately called his "Indy Family."

Doug was known for his great sense of humor and was always ready to share a joke. He was an extremely generous man who gave freely to causes close to his heart, including Wounded Warrior Project, Toys for Tots, and Ride for Kids. A cancer survivor himself, Doug had a special compassion for children battling cancer and was always thoughtful, looking for ways to help others whenever he could.

Survivors include his wife, Paula whom he married August 28, 2006 at Bristol Speedway; step-children: Scott (Jen) Ritter of Coal City, Illinois, Sharon (Danny) Tvrz of Diamond, Illinois and Michael (Tiffany) Ritter of Tennessee; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his second family: Frank and Dawn Kasper, as well as his former wife and friend, Debi and two sisters-in-law: Pam Loveland of Essex, Illinois and Peggy (Jack) Dore of Wilmington, Illinois.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Donald and granddaughter, Ally Tvrz.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and Doug’s remains will be taken to the Indianapolis 500.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Doug’s memory to his family and forwarded to the funeral home, where they will be distributed to charities that were especially meaningful to him.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Doug’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)