Douglas Gene Shreffler

Douglas Gene Shreffler obituary, Chicago, IL

Douglas Gene Shreffler

Douglas Shreffler Obituary

Published by Chicago Tribune from Dec. 31, 2020 to Jan. 10, 2021.
Douglas Gene Shreffler, 71, died peacefully at home on December 24, 2020, with his wife, Judith Anne Gleason by his side. After graduating from Lewis University, Doug joined the Navy, and achieved the rank of Lieutenant. He became a fighter pilot and member of the Barn Owl Attack Squadron on the USS Oriskany, 1972-1977, with over 100 carrier landings. Upon leaving the Navy, Doug met his wife Judith and joined her in pursuing a juris doctorate at DePaul University School of Law. Doug was a well-known and highly respected real estate attorney in the Chicago area for over 40 years.

Doug is survived by his wife, Judith Anne Gleason, and their four children, Adrienne (Robert Gilbert), Anne (Christian Dompierre), Maximilian, Kurt, four adoring grandchildren, Owen, Eloise, Jack, and Alexandra. Doug is also survived by his three sisters, Linda (Henry) Jordan, Diane (Bill) Washburn, Gail (Steve) Pusey, and his many cherished nieces and nephews. Doug dearly missed his parents that predeceased him, Gerald and Nita (Rhinehart) Shreffler.

Doug's children say he was the best dad any child could hope to have. He encouraged all of them to be adventurous. He took his children flying, paid for flight lessons, challenged them to surpass his over 2000 skydiving jumps, drove motorcycles, waterskied, scuba-dived, fished, and hunted with all of them. Doug always said that his proudest accomplishment, in addition to serving his country, was that he was able to work with all four of his children at the real estate and law offices he established many years ago. He was, and always will be, a deeply cherished father, husband, and mentor.

A celebration of life for Doug will be held at a later date, when it is safe for everyone to be together.

Doug's family deeply appreciates any memories, stories, and comments that you would like to share on his memory page.

Sign Douglas Shreffler's Guest Book

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March 12, 2024

Janet Durden posted to the memorial.

February 28, 2023

TL Hightower posted to the memorial.

February 26, 2023

David Christopherson posted to the memorial.

68 Entries

Janet Durden

March 12, 2024

After a lot of years of Internet searching, I finally found Shref.

We were introduced to Shreff by my dad, Joe Armijo, while stationed at NAS Lemoore in the 70s. Shreff became our "fun uncle". My brother mentioned that Shreff looked like Dan Aykroyd from Saturday Night Live.

Our condolences to the Shreffler family.

TL Hightower

February 28, 2023

Way too young to leave this world that he got so much from. Life was always interesting with Streak around. He made lots of friends in the Lemoore, CA, San Joaquin Valley area. I am glad to read of the legacy he left with and for his children. RIP, brother.

David Christopherson

February 26, 2023

My first Division Officer. In VA-215. Natural leader, and understanding man. Great pilot!

Becky Van Aman

October 5, 2021

So sorry for your loss.

Laura Debelina real estate closer at chicago title

July 11, 2021

I had many closings with Doug. He was always early. Doug would do the buy side for the firm because he loved to meet the clients. Doug would always give out his fake money at almost all his closings. It was gag money but boy did he get a laugh everytime he did that. You will be missed from the girls at CT Irving Park.

Garret Browne

June 3, 2021

He was a great person and really appreciated his advice. He was on our first closing and many after, always good fun and lots of patience.

Garret and Evelyn

DENNIS PYZYNA

May 26, 2021

please let me know if there will be a memorial. and i will plant a tree in his memory at a Lake up north

Pat Kelly

May 25, 2021

Please accept my family's condolences on this great loss. Doug loved his family and life which included work, but always with a playful spirit. I worked along side him years ago at Gleason, McGuire and Shreffler. During that time I helped him with a three day complex deposition that involved a lot of documents. Still, Doug joked around and kept things light. We brought doughnuts every day (Doug's idea) and the court reporter remarked at the end that it was one of the most fun deposition experiences she ever had. That was Doug. Over the years I have enjoyed numerous times together with Judy, Doug and their family at parties and holidays. Doug was always warm and welcoming. He enjoyed sailing and I will always remember the time we took him out with Judy when my dad came to town on a visit from L.I. I will miss him.

Pat Kelly

Tony King

March 21, 2021

To the Family,
It´s hard for me to put into words the feeling of loss when you know someone over so many years and then they pass. Doug was a good friend and my attorney for many years. He would always share with me stories of his adventures and life and we would sit and talk about real estate and all kinds of different topics. I was always excited about going to my closings when Doug was there, I will always remember and cherish the fact that every time I went to a closing at his office he would give me eggs from chickens that he had. When he couldn´t be present for some reason he would say "make sure Tony gets these eggs...." . The eggs were multicolored and freshly laid. Those were the best eggs I´ve ever had. He would give me fake money with his picture on it, bobble head pens, and other quirky advertising items. In fact, every time I saw him at a closing he brought me something. I loved this guy. He will be truly and deeply missed my thoughts and prayers go to the family it was a joy and pleasure knowing Doug and being a part of his life.
He was a great man!

Mike Gleason

February 26, 2021

Judy,

So sorry for your loss.

Justin Bala

February 7, 2021

Doug was a man who would talk to you like you were his family. Always enjoyed meeting him. A great lawyer too. My condolences to Judy and Adrienne.

Lin Liston

February 4, 2021

I am deeply saddened to hear of Doug´s passing. Doug was one of the first attorneys I worked with and he knew everyone. He would tell stories, joke with the other attorneys, and explain legal processes and documents with ease for his clients. His personality was colorful and he could talk about anything. It was always a pleasure to spend time with him. Condolences to Doug´s family and friends. He is missed. A real good guy!

Reggie Williams

January 27, 2021

Reggie Williams - Naval Aviator and was on cruise with Doug. My heart goes out to his family for the loss of such a strong spirited person and a great Naval pilot. Memories will always last. Red skies at night!

Greg & Beth Andresen

January 26, 2021

Dear Judy & Family-
Beth and I are deeply saddened upon learning of Doug's passing. Doug & I grew up in the same neighborhood in New Lenox. Started first grade together and continued as friends thru graduating from Lincoln-Way Central in 1967. Many good memories of the LW football team and high school dances. And how could we forget the Class of 1967 35th Class Reunion. He was a good friend. Will miss him.

Mike Wheatley

January 18, 2021

Judith, I am so sorry for your loss. Doug was an outstanding friend for 49 years and I will miss him greatly. If there is anything Kellee or I can do, let us know.

Brian Leahy

January 15, 2021

My first job in high school was working front desk at the Gleason/Shreffler law group. Working with Doug was always such a pleasure and so fun. He was the kind of person that just radiates kindness, and always had such a fun-loving attitude. He would always get lunch for me, and I can still vividly remember him sticking his hand in the freshly-poured concrete in front of the office with Luke -- with his Ferrari-stamped smart car parked right out front!
He brought a lot of light to this world. Wishing you all peace and healing.

Joanne Gleason

January 14, 2021

I remember my first telephone conversation with Doug. He was a pilot that was desperately trying to find a police officer that put a runaway on his plane. The police officer was Judy Gleason. He had called every J. Gleason in the phone book. When he got me, he asked me if I knew her and I said yes, she is my sister, but I cannot give you her phone number until I get her permission. I called him back and gave him Judy´s phone number. Six months later they were married. I too had the pleasure of working with Doug as his secretary/paralegal and later as an attorney. Doug was such a smart, good loving, fun guy. He will be missed dearly. Big George always loved Doug too-they loved sharing stories about their cars. Our condolences to Judy and the kids. Our prayers are with you.

Susan Tetrault

January 13, 2021

So so sorry. Doug was such a great attorney and friend. One of the first attorneys that I used in my real estate career (31 years ago) He was truly a deal maker not a deal breaker. Judy, our (me and Jeff Leong) thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Xoxo.

Mary Kaye (Skiniotes)Knowles

January 11, 2021

I worked for Doug when he owned Frostee´s Ice Cream stand. It was a fun time working for him. He would take us up in his plane. He even let me fly it once. Lots of good memories. Happy that he has such a great Family. Prayers for all

Thomas J Murray

January 10, 2021

Deepest sympathy to Doug's family. Doug and I were classmates at Lewis from 68 to 71 or so. Doug was fun to be with and I admire his dedication to the aviation field. I have lived in New Lenox for 40 years, Doug's home town. There are still a few "old timers' that remember him as a young man. God bless the Shreffler family.

Thomas & Meribeth Lally

January 10, 2021

Dear Shreffler and Gleason Families,
The Lally Family (OLV) is saddened to learn of your loss, and we pray for you. Thank you for sharing your loved one, an extraordinary patriot and counselor, with our nation and community.

Charlene Batson

January 10, 2021

Judy and family: Bill and I send our deepest sympathy on the loss of Doug. We have so many fond memories of our time together as we were growing up. Many fun times spent with him at my Mom's house. We pray for all of you. He will be greatly missed.

Rose and Sue Kelly

January 10, 2021

Just heard about Doug's death. So sorry for all the family. Did bring back some special memories from a long time ago. You were a good man, Doug.

Greg Siemianowski

January 9, 2021

Dear Judy and family and friends of Doug:
Please accept our entire family's condolences on the passing of Doug.
What I most remember about Doug, even after 40+ years: His infectious laugh, which reflected a respectful and often rousing sense of humor.
Doug's outstanding military service, previously unknown to me, was an indicator of his deep, fierce patriotism.
I was especially moved in reading the narration of Doug's extraordinary activities in encouraging and empowering his children.
All said, I'm thankful to have known Doug and wish all of his family and friends God's comfort and blessings.

loretta kaplan

January 9, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. For many years Doug was a regular at Northfield Community Church and someone who was always pitching in. He was a doer and always had an interesting comment to add. He will be missed by many.

Len and Deanna LiPetri

January 8, 2021

I´m so sad to hear of Dougs passing.
We were friends for over 30 years. He was a kind and gentle man. Any time I needed anything he was there for me. I loved when he visited me at my restaurant and I was able to send him home with quarts of Marinara sauce. I will miss you my friend..
Len and Deanna

Marty Gleason

January 8, 2021

Doug´s mischievous sense of humor was always appreciated. Example of his humor attached as he led a mariachi band into Xmas dinner 2018. He and Judy have left a strong legacy in their 4 children and grandkids. Stay strong!

Tony Purcell

January 8, 2021

My condolences to the entire family. It's a devastating loss to all that knew Doug.
He was the finest Attorney I've ever met and one of my closest friends. Doug treated everyone equally and respected everyone. Truly a wonderful person. I loved him like a brother and will miss him forever.

John & Meemee Wunsch

January 7, 2021

Dear Judy and Family: So sorry to hear about the passing of Doug. Please accept our sincere condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. I remember Doug from law school. He was effective and cool under pressure way back then, and there was no question he was going to have an amazing career in whatever area of the law he chose. Of course back then I did not know of his military service, his flight training, his aircraft carrier landings, etc. but I could tell he was going to be a force to be reckoned with, and his life and career surely bore this out. His knowledge of the world of real estate was in-depth, utterly reliable. If memory serves, he did the closing for the home Meemee and I still live in. Doug was a people person. He had life-long friends, and treated those he met with great affection, loyalty, and caring. He was witty and funny with a lot of interesting stories and anecdotes. God speed. We will all miss him a lot. In sympathy, John and Meemee Wunsch

Steven Burn

January 6, 2021

I love him like a father I love all his family God bless you and he's always looking over.

Kelly and Tabitha

January 5, 2021

Max, Kurt and Family,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. While it´s difficult to say farewell to our loved ones, they live on in our hearts and mind; wishing you all comfort and peace.

Mary Ceko

January 5, 2021

Sorry to hear of this sad news. Our deepest condolences to you, Judy, your children and grandchildren on the loss of Doug. Having worked with him at Gleason, McGuire and Shreffler, he had a very friendly and pleasant approach, a great sense of humor and attitude. Doug always had a smile on his face. He loved the outdoors and adrenaline rush activities like shark fishing in foreign waters! He knew how to live life. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Mary and Dan Ceko and Mrs. Mary Smythe

Regina Barresi-Spalla

January 4, 2021

Adrienne: I want to wish you my deepest sympathy. I always enjoyed working with your Dad. He was a great man and always had a huge smile and story to pass along. He will be greatly missed in the real estate lawyer community. May God grant you and your family peace and strength during this difficult time and may angels lead him home.

David Nelson

January 4, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family has been so good to me over the years. Doug will be missed - the email jokes he would forward always made me laugh - what a great sense of humor he had! In my thoughts and prayers!

Mary Beth Talhami

January 4, 2021

I'm so sorry for your loss. May your memories of a life well lived bring you comfort and a smile. May God hold him in the palm of his hand. With friendship and sympathy, The Talhami's

joe germinaro

January 4, 2021

what a true blessing to have known such a wonderful man. Doug always had a positive attitude, and with him the cup was always half full.
He had such a warm comforting way about him, that no matter what your frame of mind when you met with him, you always left with a smile on your face. He loved his family very much and was extremely proud of each one of them. he will be greatly missed. I am blessed to have known him.

Jay Kowalski

January 3, 2021

Dear Judy, Adrienne, Annie, Max and Kurt, so sorry to hear the news of Doug's passing. I enjoyed working with him these past twenty years as well as the opportunity he gave me to get to know all of you as well. He was a great guy and a proud father and grandfather. I will keep him in my prayers.

Donald F. Mosinski

January 3, 2021

Sorry for your loss. He will be truly missed.

Liliana & Vasile Lohan

January 3, 2021

We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our sincere Condolences. May he Rest In Peace
Sincerely,

Liliana & Vasile Lohan

Ron and Haidee Fernandez

January 3, 2021

We are deeply sorry for your loss. Doug was our lawyer, recommended to us by BJ Tregonning, when we closed our home at Bunker Hill. We also came back to him to be my parents' lawyer when they closed on their home. Such a bright and very kind man. He told stories of his navy years and his time in the Philippines. He even gave us fresh eggs from his hen house. We will miss his smile and such genuine nature to help others. He will be in our prayers.

Michael Orlando

January 3, 2021

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to Judy and the Shreffler family. My years working at GM&S with Doug and the Gleason family will always be cherished. Doug was truly a great lawyer and even better mentor and person who always had a smile on his face. I am very saddened by his passing, but he truly lived an adventurous life in those 71 years.

Donna Manella

January 3, 2021

So sorry for your loss. I feel lucky to have met Doug, and through him your family. Sending prayers of strength during this time of sorrow.

Wally Cornett

January 2, 2021

Doug was a great contributor to our Sunday Seminar at Northfield Community Church. We covered topics far and wide and Doug was knowledgeable on all of them. So sorry for your loss.

The Galster Family

January 2, 2021

So glad we were able to meet this wonderful person in recent years. Truly a wonderful Dad and Grandpa. Much love to you all.

Ronald B. Kaplan

January 2, 2021

Dear Judy and Adrienne:
My condolences to you and the rest of your family. Doug was a great guy and lawyer and will be missed by all in the legal community that knew him. Although it's been several years since we had worked together, it was always a pleasure. Adrienne, several months ago we had a transaction together for the first time and I can see that the same integrity and professionalism that your dad brought to the table has been instilled in you. So sorry for your loss.

Ron Kaplan

Pat Holden

January 1, 2021

Saddened to hear of my old friend's passing. Doug was a swash buckler in the truest sense. Have to remember the laughs and good times. My condolences to Judy and the children

Torres

January 1, 2021

So sorry to hear this news
Doug was a great guy who was incredibly cool in my eyes
I enjoyed lived vicariously through his stories of his many adventures and accomplishments
He is missed already
RIP
Jeanne and Joe Ponsetto

Tommy Noland

January 1, 2021

Dear Judy,
Diane and I wish to offer you and the family our deepest sympathies. Know that you and the family will be added to our prayer list. God Bless and Love you.
Tommy & Diane Noland

Rich Riley

January 1, 2021

My deepest sympathy to Judy and the rest of the family. Doug was always full of energy and fun to be around. I wish you all the best in these difficult times.

Daniel G Lauer

January 1, 2021

Adrienne, very sorry for your loss and sympathy to the entire family...only 71 years old but what a fun character he had and jam-packed life (I had no idea about his background and hobbies). Doug will really be missed. God rest his soul.

Joyce Slutzky

January 1, 2021

Judy, Adrienne, Annie, Max and Kurt, my sincere sympathy to you. Those Loleta Ave. days were the best. A beautiful family then and now.

Dennis A Pyzyna

January 1, 2021

I am so very sorry for your loss. Doug was a good friend and kindred spirt. We ate, and drank, went shooting and commiserated about many thing. We hadn't gotten together in a while because of the times, and we hadn't talked in several months but he will be always in my heart as a true friend and fellow vet

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Gail Shreffler Pusey

January 1, 2021

Doug was the best "big brother" anyone could ask for. I was always proud to say that he was my brother. He was popular, smart, handsome, funny, and loved life. Above all, he was just plain nice and constantly demonstrated integrity. I loved telling people that he was my brother in the small town of New Lenox, Illinois. He and Judy were always willing to share their talents, resources, and expertise to others (including my family and me). He adored his children and grandchildren. The photo with his 4 children was taken in 2018-at our mother´s memorial service. He loved being a grandpa!

A few specific memories:

He was a faithful, loving son and brother. See family photos.
He liked his cars. See photo of him in his blue corvette. He visited my husband, Steve and me in 1975 when we lived in Flagstaff, Arizona.
I remember him working with our father-putting a lawn mower engine on a bicycle to create a motor bike. He was talented and a hard worker like Dad.
Doug was very active in his church, but also took time to help others in various ways. See photo of him ringing a bell for The Salvation Army.
He was adventurous-flying, sky diving, piloting a jet, fast cars, etc.
When he attended the University of Hawaii for a year, he flew for an air tour company. When my parents and I visited him, he flew us around the various Hawaiian Islands.
He loved the Beetles and Elvis. He was also persuasive. I remember him talking our mother into allowing him to go to an Elvis Presley movie.
He liked to tease and call me "poor little lamb."
At mealtime, he hid green peas in his cuffs so he wouldn´t have to eat them.
Doug let me borrow his light blue Ford LTD when I was 16 (did I say he was smart?). I wrecked it (had friends with me, but thankfully no one was hurt). He was very nice about it. I did have to clean his rental house a few times, though.

We love you Doug and will miss you! Please know that you have left a wonderful legacy to your family and friends.

Gail Shreffler Pusey

Sharon Guiffra

January 1, 2021

Dear Judy, Adrienne, Anne, Max and Kurt. Please accept my deepest, most sincere sympathies. I am stunned and so sad. Doug was a bright, talented, generous, kind man and reliable friend. Although his life was too short, he made a huge impact. He will be remembered.
Thinking of you always,
Sharon

Joel and Berta Ostrow

January 1, 2021

Extremely sorry to hear this. We will never forget our dinners, my golf trip with Doug to Florida, and his help with our real estate matters. Love to you all

Bonnie M. Keating

December 31, 2020

Sincere sympathy to Judy and Family, Doug was a great attorney and a truly nice guy. I'll miss working with the dynamic duo of Adrienne and Doug! May your memories reflect the happiness I know he brought to your family and others!

Robert M. Zelek

December 31, 2020

Judy and Family:

I am greatly saddened to hear of Doug's passing. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Bob & Joan Zelek

Joseph and Donna Hedrick

December 31, 2020

I considered Doug a friend and an interesting person. I enjoyed time with him and am amazed by what I am ready today. He was in line to be commander of our American Legion Post #134 until his illness.
The family get together using the hall will be available thru me as long as I am around.

Anthony Sammarco

December 31, 2020

Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Your Husband and Father and Grandfather aside from being a brilliant lawyer, was a smart, witty, caring and kind man and he will certainly be missed by all who knew him.

Judy Turner

December 31, 2020

My deepest sympathies to Judy, Adrienne, Anne, Max and Kurt. I worked for Doug for 18 years and we became a team rather than employer employee. I also became friends with Judy and the entire Gleason family. Although we only saw each other a few times since my retirement, we always had fun remembering the good times we had. Rest in Peace my friend.

Marty Blumenthal

December 31, 2020

How time flies by! My deep condolences to you Judy on Doug's passing. He was a good guy!

Mary Hart

December 31, 2020

Dear Judy , Adrienne, Annie , Max & Kurt. Please accept my sympathy during this difficult time. Remembering Doug as a very nice man & neighbor . Thinking of all those ballet rehearsals those were hectic , happy days. Please know you are in my thoughts & prayers. Mary Hart

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March 12, 2024

Janet Durden posted to the memorial.

February 28, 2023

TL Hightower posted to the memorial.

February 26, 2023

David Christopherson posted to the memorial.