Donald Gilgenberg

Donald James Gilgenberg, 71, of Mokena, IL, was ushered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ June 6th, 2024, surrounded by his family and close friends; after battling a long and difficult illness. Don is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, of almost 42 years, his children, Kenny(former spouse Renae), Renee(Glen), Christina (Daniel)( former spouse Mike), Danny (former spouse Michelle). His grandchildren Brian (Sarah), Corey, Jimmy(Brittany), Ashley, Timmy, Amber, Sarah(Tom), Jacob, Sabrina (Eddie), Benjamin and Tommy. Great-grandchildren, Aly, Aspenn, Braydon, Scott, Isabella, Hendrix and Penelope. His niece Jeannie (Tom) nephew, Michael (Bridget), nieces, Chrissy and Karen, several great nieces, nephews and close friends. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Francis, his brother John, his son Tommy and his grandson, Keith.

Don was a licensed electrician. He retired as a project manager in the fire alarm installation industry. No matter where he was, Don loved to laugh and make others laugh. He will be warmly and fondly remembered for his selfless generosity, servant’s heart, excellent work ethic, straightforward honesty, quick wit, humor and hilarious Dad jokes. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend; his dedication, dependability and commitment to family and friends was unwavering. Above all, he loved his Savior, Jesus Christ. Don was an active member of Grace Fellowship Church in Mokena, until his illness prevented him from serving in the capacity he desired to. Don missed his calling as a weather man, astronomer, chef and stand-up comedian! He loved a good storm, the wonder of the galaxies, cooking, and a good joke. Don especially enjoyed volunteering at church and local missions. He loved to cook, bbq, and bake for his family and friends. He made the best kolaczkis, ever! He also enjoyed gardening, planting flowers and sitting outside on his deck. He was happiest when he was traveling with Sharon, his family or friends. He especially loved going on cruises and vacationing in Florida. He was a wonderful husband, father and Papa to his grandchildren; whom he cherished and loved spending time with. He was always quick to lend a helping hand whenever any of his family or friends needed him. Even to his dying day, he was praying for and encouraging others, doing his best to show appreciation and gratitude to all who were involved with caring for him. As long as he had breath to talk, he was sharing the gospel, praying for others or telling a joke. While he felt his illness impeded his desire to serve the Lord, he still impacted so many lives; and God continued to use him until his very last breath. He would ask the nurses and doctors if he could pray with them or for them. Papa Gil/Don will be sorely missed by his family and friends…we are all so incredibly grateful that God so graciously blessed our lives with this amazing soul! He has left an indelible mark on our hearts and in this world. Well done good and faithful servant…you finished well!  “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 13, 2024, 3:00-9:00 PM at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 Wolf Road Mokena, IL. 60448. Lying in State Friday, June 14, 2024, 10:00 AM until time of Celebration of Life at 10:30 AM. at Grace Fellowship Church 11049 LaPorte Road, Mokena, IL. 60448. Interment to follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider contributing to My Joyful Heart in memory of Don, https://myjoyfulheart.org/