Douglas P. Scroggs

Douglas P. Scroggs of Princeton, IL, whose life was filled with love, laughter, and devotion to family, came to a quiet close in his home on November 8, 2026, when he passed away at the age of 82. He was surrounded by his immediate family: his wife, Bonnie; their three children, Paul, Matthew, and Kristen; and their spouses.

Doug was born on March 1, 1944, in Des Moines, IA, to Herbert and Eleanor (Putcamp) Scroggs. He was raised in Princeton, IL, where he attended school throughout his childhood and graduated from Princeton High School with the class of 1962. Doug proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1972. He married Bonnie Fox on June 23, 1968, at the base in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Following his military service, Doug and Bonnie moved to Iowa, where he began working for Winnebago Motor Homes in Marketing and Product Development. They later relocated to Princeton, IL, where they made their home.

From a very early age, he had a passion for anything that had wheels. Double that enthusiasm if it had a motor, whether it be a bicycle, a motorcycle, a boat, or an automobile. Upon seeing an older vehicle somewhere, the common comment was, “I used to have one of those.” He had a natural mechanical talent for building, repairing, and restoring just about anything. His creativity was evident in the tools he invented for individual tasks. If asked, he would eagerly work on a project not only to help you but for the pleasure of designing, creating, and sharing.

Doug made a point of showing up for the people he loved. Whether attending ballgames, helping the kids with projects in the garage (like building a go-cart or birdhouse), or simply being available when someone needed him, he made family the center of everything he did. Traveling and camping were favorite hobbies, especially if they involved other family members—the more, the merrier. He will be remembered for his wisdom, his patience, his laughter and extraordinary sense of humor, and the steady presence he brought into their lives.

For 58 years, he shared a beautiful marriage with his wife, Bonnie. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, encouragement, and unconditional love. While his passing leaves an immense void, the example he set will continue to guide future generations. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Doug is survived by his wife, Bonnie Scroggs of Princeton; three children, Douglas “Paul” (Kimberly) Scroggs of Huntley, IL, Matthew Dale (Jamie) Scroggs of Elburn, IL, and Kristen (Joseph) Hendricks of Sleepy Hollow, IL; seven grandchildren, Harley, Hannah, Lauren, Madelynne, Jack, Olivia, and Mark; five great-grandchildren, William, Weston, Walker, Zoey, and Maxwell; two sisters, Lynne Erickson of Madison, WI, and Lori Scroggs of Princeton; and two nieces and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Bruce Erickson and John Lundahl.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at the Princeton Bible Church, with Pastor Curtis Odell officiating. Fellowship will immediately follow the celebration at church. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be directed to the Princeton Christian Academy or Second Story Teen Center both in Princeton.