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Elmhurst Community Funeral Home - The Ahlgrim Chapel

567 South Spring Road

Elmhurst, Illinois

Donald Power Obituary

Donald "Don" R. Power, age 73, a longtime resident of Elmhurst, IL passed away suddenly on May 29, 2021. A retired teacher of 32 years in the Elmhurst School District and a long time Real Estate Agent. Loving father of Kelli (Robert) Mendonsa and Karyn (Wendy) Mardak; proud papa of Jacob Lange; brother of Mary Ellen (Bill) Barbaro, the late Patricia (Ed) Strandberg, Fred (Marilyn), Bill (Joan), Tom (Kay) and the late Michael (Judy) Power and dear uncle of numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation from 4-9 p.m. on Monday, June 7, 2021 at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst. Family and friends will gather at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York Road, Elmhurst for a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Interment will be private. Info – 630-834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to LJ's Healing Hearts, www.ljshealinghearts.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Jun. 2, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Power

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Jim Kuchenbecker

October 23, 2021

WOW!! I am so saddened to hear of the passing of a great man! He was an amazing person who was a friend and mentor. I first met Mr. Power his very first year that he was hired as a teacher. He my Gym teacher at Lincoln School and I was a 2nd Grader. He immediately became my absolute favorite teacher. He was kind and always supportive. I fondly remember him asking me "what I wanted to be when I grew up?" I told him I wanted to be a Policeman. Now, I am 58 years old and I am a Police Chief. I have been a Policeman now for nearly 38 years and it was Mr. Power who encouraged me to follow my dream. He always believed in his students. He then became my 5th Grade teacher and that was his first year in a classroom from being a Gym teacher. I still can remember him playing his Sonny and Cher records and singing "I got you Babe". He went on to be my grade school flag football & softball coach. I remember when Kelli was born and my mother made her a pillow and blanket and I gave it to Mr. Power for her. When I was in High School he was my wrestling coach Freshman & Sophomore year. He used to tell stories about his wrestling days at Holly Cross.
Once I graduated from York I went off to college, graduated and became a Police Officer. Although my family still lives in Elmhurst I never returned after College. Over the years I would occasionally run into him and always enjoyed talking about the memories of the past.
He had such a positive impact on me and I will never forget him. I only wish I could have visited with him one more time before he passed.
Rest in Peace Mr. Power!

Sally Cassidy

June 8, 2021

Sally Cassidy

June 8, 2021

Sally Cassidy

June 8, 2021

Dear Don,

Who knew when you were Paddy´s fourth grade teacher at Edison in 1989 that we would become such great friends? From PTA nights out dancing and having a blast, to working together at Hawthorne and Jefferson. Our friendship continued throughout the years sharing some Friday guest carvings at Silverado and an occasional lunch or dinner.

You were always kind, caring, supportive, and always full of life, fun, and laughter. If someone would wonder how many friends a person could have in their life, the answer in your case would be limitless. Your heart was always open to new friends, no one was excluded.

I remember when you came to our home for game day, that was tremendously fun. You helped my beloved Kathy at my behest after she had experienced the most devastating loss one could imagine. You delivered a chocolate covered donut from a bakery to me every Friday in the TRC at Jefferson after meeting your teacher friends for coffee. You even snuck into my driveway to tape a Ziploc encased donut to the door handle of my car! Who does that? Only you.

You invited me to visit you in Florida when I needed it most. That trip was the very best therapy for me and the laughs we shared were just what I needed. The weather for eight days was picture perfect. I was able to walk every day and admire the gorgeous landscaping, see the otter, and then witness the crazy bird eat a whole fish and do its "dance." I met your friends, aka all of the StoneBridge residents on the patio every night and experienced the calm that had been missing in my life for the past two years. It was a gift and a blessing to have been able to spend that time with you. You made it special. I woke up on my birthday to a card, a chocolate bunny, and a Ty stuffed bunny that you left on the table for me while you went golfing. That made my day! Then, you surprised me with a sunset cruise and dinner. Absolutely amazing! You loved it as much or more than I because you made a plan to bring me happiness. That is the essence of the giving person that you were to so many. You lived to make others happy and that offered you tremendous pleasure.

Your passing came as such a blow that I have been in disbelief since receiving the news. I am beyond saddened, but am incredibly grateful to have been able to spend the time together. It certainly has put things in perspective for me.

I can´t thank you enough for being such a dear, delightful friend to me. I will forever cherish the wonderful times we shared. You were one in a million!

Bless your heart and my you rest in eternal peace. Thank you for being my friend and making a difference in the world.

My heart and sincere condolences go out to your family. May the best memories of life experiences with you sustain them.

My love always,

Sally

P. S. Mike did an awesome job today!

Molly (Sullivan) Concannon

June 8, 2021

I remember anxiously waiting to find out who my 4th grade teacher would be... in desperate hope that it would be Mr Power. He lived up to the hype. From super discs to afternoons spent reading aloud from Sideways Stories from Wayside School (he subbed in our names for the characters in the book), Mr Power knew the way to pre-tweens hearts. He was the kind of teacher that made kids love to learn. His legacy is large and he will be missed be so very many.

Peter Squier

June 8, 2021

My sympathies to his family and friends. My family is so very grateful for all that Don did to be both a great friend, golf buddy, Florida roommate, and recovery caregiver after my dad´s stroke (Marshall Squier). I loved his sense of humor, and ability to make everyone laugh from a good joke. He will be missed!

Anne Sullivan

June 7, 2021

We sure did share a lot...you left an imprint on our hearts to be sure!
Sending love to all your family...

Kurt and Danell Andersen

June 7, 2021

We are terribly saddened by the news of Don´s passing. He was such a bright star at Stonebridge and in our lives. Don was a gentleman and a joy to spend time with. He is greatly missed.

Connie Bergstrom

June 7, 2021

"Some people come into our lives, leave foot prints on our hearts, and we are never the same!" Bless you dear Don!

Connie Bergstrom

Barbar Rosenberg

June 6, 2021

Oh my stars! What a teaching force Don was. We were at Edison School at the same time. His eyes would light up and sparkle when Sam and I would meet him in the hall. He was a dedicated teacher and a friend.

Lizzy

June 5, 2021

Just to think of Don puts a big smile on my face. So fun, so happy, such a beautiful soul. I always looked forward to seeing him! I just loved him to pieces. His Irish eyes were always smiling.

Kathy Bergren

June 5, 2021

Don (aka: The Mayor of Stonebridge) will be missed by everyone who knew him. He touched so many lives with his quick wit, his funny stories, his sliders, and his ability to love all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. He was a treasure of a man who will be greatly missed. Rest In Peace my Friend!

Sandy and Bill Wobbeking

June 4, 2021

We met Don several years ago at Stonebridge CC. We always looked forward to seeing him with his kind spirit, great smile, caring heart and his love of dancing. He always made everyone feel special. Our Friday nights will not be the same without him. Rest in Peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Tanisha gillette

June 3, 2021

RIP Mr Power!! You are sadly missed by all who came to know you. You will always be in our hearts!!! Cheers to you my friend!!

Chris and Angie Rieger

June 3, 2021

We met Don a few years back when we joined Stonebridge. He was always welcoming and smiling. Regularly told me he was grateful for every day. He spoke often of his daughters and there was a particular song one of the DJ's would play and he always mentioned that he had requested to play it at one of your weddings. So sorry for your loss.

Maureen Hansen

June 3, 2021

Don was truly "Mr. Stonebridge" making everyone feel
special. I will miss his visits to the table, and waving
as he went by in the golf cart even if we were not out
in the lanai. He´s joining his buddies. My sincerest
sympathy to you all.

Erin Peachin

June 3, 2021

Marie, Dixie, and I plus numerous friends toasted you at the bar last eve .. Jason played a Chicago tune as he was the music last eve and how you loved him !!! Your smile, your laugh, your caring nature ... you will remain with us forever in spirit .. RIP Don

John Sinitean

June 3, 2021

I will always remember the Florida golf trips, Dons friendship and hospitality to the golfing buddy's he hosted at Stone Bridge. He was a true friend and will be greatly missed by friend and family. God speed my friend.

Deb Hincewicz

June 3, 2021

Life is precious and Don lived life in that manner, Always quick to befriend and lend a helping hand. Will miss the Bistro chats, full of sincerity and humor. A renaissance man gone too early.

Mary Lou Fiarito senne-dabbs

June 2, 2021

My heart is broken. So many memories from St. Gertrude´s grammar school.
All of those team dances in the school hall and our continued friendship with the SGSers for well over 50 years. Everyone will miss you and the twinkle in your eye. Much love,

Mary Jo and Greg Brown

June 2, 2021

We are toasting your wonderful life, your full and loving spirit, and will miss your stories always told with that Irish twinkle in your eyes.

Matt Masters

June 2, 2021

Upon visiting Lincoln for the open house a few weeks ago - Mr. Power was quite the subject of discussion - at the time we learned he was alive and in Elmhurst still...and of course now I'm saddened to learn he has passed. I'll never forget my 4th grade teacher - he made a very distinct impression on me...I'll never forget when he would fire up the record player and spin "You Talk Too Much" for the class because of my constant chattering....you will be missed Don!

Melissa Meyer & Scott Spangler

June 2, 2021

You are already missed, Don! What a warm, funny and moderately mischievous spirit you had. After a round of golf, Scott and I always looked forward to seeing you and the rest of the crew at the Bistro. We knew there was a story to hear or tell, and your jokes always made us laugh. We will miss dancing with you on Friday night. Rest in peace darling! We pray for blessings and comfort for your loved ones during this challenging time.

Audrey Matulay

June 2, 2021

Don had such a kind, considerate, and gentle soul. His infectious smile and smooth dance moves will be missed here at Stonebridge. I am truly blessed to have know him. Sending my prayers and thoughts to all.

Marie Rotunda

June 2, 2021

Don was a wonderful man with a powerful spirit. He touched many lives young and old. He will be missed. Happy Hour in Florida will never be the same without the "Mayor of Stonebridge". Fly with the angels, Don. You were truly one on earth.

Becky Inkel

June 1, 2021

Don was a wonderful friend and will be missed here at Stonebridge. My prayers and thoughts are with you all as you celebrate the life of a wonderful man!

Patrick Rheaume

June 1, 2021

Cousins, I am saddened to hear of Don's death. I remember many visits and good times. Too early. Peace be with you all.

Tanisha & Howard Gillette

June 1, 2021

This is a very sad news for us. We have been serving Mr Power at Stonebridge country Club for 4yrs now. We had some really good times with him, alot of laughs. He was that person that always made sure a new member always feel welcome and would buy them a drink and have us bring it over to them. My oh my how he loved to dance. Never a dull moment around him. I have so much to say about Don. One thing I know for sure, I'm sure gonna miss him. RIP MY FRIEND!!

DAVE M JONES

June 1, 2021

I just was with you on Friday, Don! We kissed, too. Celebrated my birthday with a Bundtini. You had such a wide smile Friday night. We'll miss you at the 1911.

Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results

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Memorial Events
for Donald Power

Jun

7

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Elmhurst Community Funeral Home - The Ahlgrim Chapel

567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126

Jun

8

Funeral Mass

10:00 a.m.

Visitation Catholic Church

779 S. York Road, Elmhurst, IL

Funeral services provided by:

Elmhurst Community Funeral Home - The Ahlgrim Chapel

567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126

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