Donald J. Cleghorn

Donald (DJ) Cleghorn

Don Cleghorn, 84, was peacefully called home on October 13, 2010 at the Joliet Hospice Home, with loved ones nearby.

Don was born May 28, 1926 in Joliet, son of Harry and Marie Cleghorn.

He is survived by his children Linda (Peter Kirschhoffer) Cleghorn, Gary Cleghorn, David (Eileen) Cleghorn, Chris (Dale) Gerritsen, and Kurt (Susan) Cleghorn. Daughter-in-law Cindy (late Scott) Schumacher. Dear grandfather of 12 grandchildren, two sisters Marie (late Don) Wysocki and Marge (Bill) Williams. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. Preceded in death by his beloved wife Nancy, son Scott, brother Robert, and his parents Harry & Marie Cleghorn.

DJ attended Joliet Township High School until 1944, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served in the Pacific Theatre during WW II, and was stationed in the Philippines and Paupau, New Guinea. After the war Don returned home where, on a blind date arranged by friends, he met his future wife Nancy, of Mishawaka Indiana.

They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2003, and remained happily married until her death in 2007. Together they lovingly raised 6 children, and enjoyed spending time with their 12 Grandchildren. Although all were loved equally, DJ had a particular soft-spot in his heart for his Grand-daughters.

DJ was a long-standing and loyal member of Carpenters Union Local 174 for 50 years. Don participated in the construction of Dresden Nuclear Plant, Braidwood Nuclear Plant, Hillcrest Shopping Center, OLA Retirement Home, several area schools, as well as numerous residences in the area. He passed much of his carpentry skill on to his children.

DJ enjoyed hunting , fishing, and camping with his family. He also enjoyed boating and water skiing. Weekend trips to Lake Cora in Michigan and camping at Pure Rod & Gun Club in Plainfield are remembered with special fondness.

Following retirement, Don and Nancy enjoyed several years at their cottage at Long Lake in Michigan. In his youth he roller skated with his buddies and raised homing pigeons with his brother Bob. He loved his Chicago Cubs, and followed them faithfully season after season.

Don was an active parishioner at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Joliet. Besides attending mass unfailingly, he was especially active in the school"s athletic association, and was awarded a distinguished service award in 1978. A special note of thanks to the entire family of George & Maureen Block, Eileen Cleghorn, Marge Williams, Provena St. Joseph Medical Center, and Joliet Hospice for their special love and attention paid to DJ, particularly in his later years.

While his departure from this world saddens us, we are happy that he is with his savior and reunited with the love of his life, Nancy.

Don"s patient manner, his willingness to put others first, and his resiliency provided a role model we strive to emulate. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Joliet Hospice or St. John the Baptist Catholic church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday at 10:00am October 16th at St. John the Baptist Church in Joliet, a prayer service will be held at the funeral home starting at 9:30AM. Visitation will be Friday evening from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Tezak Funeral Home in Joliet. Burial will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois, on MONDAY at 12 noon, everyone is asked to arrive at the cemetery at 11:45AM