Donald J. Wegrzyn

Donald J. Wegrzyn, 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Libertyville, Illinois. Born on March 17, 1938, in Waukegan, Illinois, Don was a lifelong resident of Lake County, having lived in North Chicago, Lake Bluff, and most recently Gurnee. He shared 64 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Gail, whom he married on July 29, 1961. Together they raised their family in Lake Bluff and enjoyed spending winters in PGA Village, Port St. Lucie, Florida. Their love of gardening, entertaining, and hosting family gatherings created cherished memories that will be treasured by all who knew them. Don earned his Master’s degree from Northern Illinois University, where he was also inducted into the university's Sports Hall of Fame. He began his career as a physical education teacher at Warren Township High School, where he taught for eight years. He then embarked on the profession he truly loved—golf. Don's remarkable career at Old Elm Club in Highland Park spanned 46 years. Starting as a front door attendant, he worked his way through various positions before becoming Head Golf Professional and then General Manager. Recognized as a Master Golf Professional, Don served as President of the Illinois PGA and was inducted into the Illinois PGA Hall of Fame. He was also a Lifetime member of the PGA of America and was honored with induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame. Among his many accomplishments, Don played an instrumental role in bringing the PGA Championship to Kemper Lakes Golf Club in 1989. A passionate advocate for youth golf, Don was a Charter Member of the First Tee of Northeastern Illinois program, providing underprivileged children with opportunities to learn the game's fundamentals, values, and life skills. Don was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Gurnee. He was an avid Chicago sports fan who faithfully cheered for the Cubs and Bears. He also enjoyed fishing and spent many years pursuing his hobby as a dedicated coin collector. Don is survived by his loving wife, Gail; his children, Cheryl (Jeff) Matheson, Karen Wegrzyn, and Douglas Wegrzyn; his grandchildren, Tim (Rachel) Matheson, Taylor (Kyle) McKinney, Jack Wegrzyn, and Melissa (Mike) Klosterhoff; and his great-grandchildren, Hadley, Harper, Hazel, and Reagan. He is also survived by his siblings, Frank (Carol) Wegerson and Marie (Vito Campobasso) Anuta. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Burnett-Dane Funeral Home, 120 W. Park Avenue (one block west of Milwaukee Avenue), Libertyville. Visitation will continue at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6401 Gages Lake Road, Gurnee, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to “Cure Alzheimer’s Fund” or “First Tee – Greater Chicago”. For information, call 847-362-3009 or share a memory at burnettdane.com. Don's legacy of family, friendship, mentorship, and love of the game will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Donald J. Wegrzyn

March 17, 1938 - June 11, 2026