Donald “Don” B. Nauer, 81, of Huntley, Illinois passed away peacefully at his residence on Saturday, January 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on September 21, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois to Bert and Helen Nauer. He married Ellen Nauer (formerly Heffernan) on October 12, 1968 in Chicago. Don was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. After serving his country, Donald began an almost 30 year career in Law Enforcement with the Chicago Police Department, retiring in 1999.
Don and Ellen called the Chicago Northwest Side home for 32 years before moving to Huntley in 2006. He was a renaissance man, with diverse hobbies and interests. He was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Police and VFW. He and Ellen went on several motorcycle tours with the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, including trips to Billings, Montana, the Smoky Mountains, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He was a fan of the Cubs and the Bears (though sometimes unwillingly). Don was an avid reader, and had a passion for computers, electronics, photography, HAM radio, and astronomy. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
Don is survived by his wife of 56 years, Ellen Nauer; his daughters, Tracey (Kevin) Morrissey, and Meredith (Sean) Duggan; his grandchildren, Jack and Ethan Duggan, and Aidan and Keira Morrissey; and a sister, Judy (Michael) Schmauderer.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his sister, Arden (Lee) Reed.
Visitation will be held at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, in Huntley, on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 4pm-8pm, with prayers at 7:30 pm.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church-10307 Dundee Road,Huntley, on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
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Ellen and family I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in my prayers know that you have a friend just a call away Ellen if needed.
Tracey & family, my sincere condolences. May he rest in peace knowing what a loving and fulfilling life he had.
So sorry for your loss. I (Howard) worked with Donnie for many years and we had many good times together. My condolences to the entire family, may he rest in peace.
Mere, I’m sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ellen, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of a great guy Don. I am positive that my Kenny greeted Don with a big hug and a cold beer..If you ever need or want to talk, please get in touch with me via email. sellinger9@aol.com sellinger9@aol.com
Sending deepest sympathy’s on Don’s passing .