Douglas William Hood's Obituary
Douglas William Hood, 74, of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on April 20, 2026, in the city he always called home.
Born in Racine on May 22, 1951, to James William Hood and Josephine Catherine (Gyurina) Hood, Doug grew up in the community he would love his entire life. He graduated from Case High School in 1969 and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
Doug was a jack of all trades who traveled the world and took on many jobs over the years, including a proud career in manufacturing operations, but what he was best known for was making people laugh, both behind the bar and out on the road. His twelve years as a motorcycle instructor for Harley-Davidson were what he was truly born to do, combining his love for riding with his gift for connecting with people.
Above all, Doug loved his family. He was the best father a daughter could ever have, and a loyal companion to his miniature dachshund, Molly, who was rarely far from his side.
Doug is survived by his daughter, Tressa R. Hood (Patryk Deptula); his grandson, Emryk W. Deptula; his sister, Iris C. Manderfield; his nieces, Jeniffer L. DeGroot (Troy A. DeGroot), Justina (Tom) Peterson, Emma K. DeGroot; his nephews, Timothy S. Rygiel, Andrew A. DeGroot, Evan S. DeGroot; and his dear friends Michael Delaney and Dave Anderson.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, James and Josephine Hood, and his sister, Jean M. Rygiel.
Family and friends are warmly invited to a visitation held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Wilson's Funeral Home, 1212 Lathrop Avenue, Racine, WI 53405, followed by a service from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Committal will take place at 12:45 p.m. at West Lawn Memorial Park, 9000 Washington Avenue, Racine, WI 53406.
What’s your fondest memory of Douglas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Douglas?
Share a story where Douglas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Douglas you’ll never forget.
How did Douglas make you smile?
