Robert James Donatelli, 89, of Downers Grove, a former 30-year Hinsdale resident, passed away Aug. 4, 2023, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Chicago in 1933 to John and Anna (Gerwatowski) Donatelli. A devoted White Sox Fan, he grew up on the south side of Chicago. Bob worked with his father running the family newspaper stand at Madison and Wabash. Bob was a graduate of St. Thomas Military Academy in Saint Paul, Minn. After graduating, Bob attended Loyola University in Chicago where he completed his bachelor's, master's and educational doctorate degrees. Starting in 1951 Bob proudly served in the United States Army and obtained the rank of captain. This included service during the Berlin crisis in 1961 at Fort Devens, Mass.
His college friendship with Maureen Fogarty developed into a whirlwind romance. On February 11, 1956, Bob married the love of his life on a wintry Chicago day. Their devoted relationship evolved into a joyous family. They lived on the south side of Chicago until 1969 before moving to Hinsdale, where they raised their family. Once the children left the nest, Bob and Maureen settled comfortably in Downers Grove.
After graduating from Loyola, Bob taught in Burbank School District 111 and quickly rose to the ranks of principal. Bob concurrently was an adjunct professor at Loyola University, Water Tower Campus, teaching future educators. Bob instilled great educational values to countless students. After he retired from education, Bob embarked on his second career as a Realtor in the Hinsdale area, sharing his love of family by helping clients find their forever home.
Bob spent countless hours playing the piano by ear and was a captivating singer. His birthday calls to friends and family will be forever missed. A highly spiritual man, Bob was active throughout his life with his churches and their communities. Bob was a former Grand Knight of the Mayslake chapter of Knights of Columbus.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Maureen; his sister, Lucianne Donatelli; his children, Mary Beth Donatelli, Michael (Jan) Donatelli, Mark (Nancy) Donatelli, Meg (the late Dr. Randall) Stein, Anne (Joel) Galvan, Celine (Dr Clifford) Greenbaum, John (Patty) Donatelli and Jeni (Dr. Joseph) Ihm; his grandchildren, James (Okemia), Michael, Matthew, Brian (Manisara), Patrick, Clay, Tyler, Mark Jr. (Geena), Eric, Connor, Joel Jr. (Jackie), Korina (Maurice), Lindsey (Angel), Stetson, Maeve, Hannah, Madeline, Bennett, Jacob, Colette, Robert (Brianna), Charlotte (Noel), Lilly, Sophia and Charles; his great grandchildren, James Jr., Isreal, Maurice Jr., Dominic, Allanah, Aria, Abigail, Demi, Kameron, John and Nicholas; and many nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his son, Matthew; and his sister, Rosemary.
Visitation is from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, at Adolf and Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S. Madison St., Willowbrook.
A second visitation will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 11, at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church, 306 W. Fourth St., Hinsdale. A funeral Mass will follow at 10 a.m. at the church.
Interment will be at Holy Sepulchre in Worth.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made online to Hesed House at http://www.hesedhouse.org.
Brian Powell Funeral Directors of Hinsdale handled the arrangements.
