Obituary of Donald Senffner

Donald E. Senffner "Papa" It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald E. Senffner, at the age of 83 after a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Donald entered into eternal life on November 28, 2015 at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Joliet, IL on January 13, 1932 to the late Steven and Mary (nee Bregar) Senffner. Donald was employed by Olin Chemical for over 40 years and he also served as a part time police officer for the villages of Channahon, Rockdale and Minooka. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving under the auspices of the United States Army. A lifelong member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. In his free time, Donald enjoyed working outdoors especially plowing snow in the winter and cutting lawns in the summer for many of his neighbors. He was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. He could fix anything and he loved to tinker around the house. Donald was truly a selfless individual and always put the needs of his family before his own. He was a hard worker and an excellent provider. He instilled in his family a deep faith in God and taught them the value of hard work, sacrifice and pushing through adversity. His dedication and devotion to his family will always be remembered, greatly appreciated and serve as a wonderful example of a faithful husband and selfless father. A golden heart has stopped beating and his hardworking hands are now at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. We are truly blessed and eternally grateful that Donald was our loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Preceded in death by his devoted wife of sixty years, Dorothy A. Senffner (July 6, 2015); beloved son, Michael R. Senffner (April 11, 1998); and dear brothers-in law, Leroy Pommerening and Richard Klimek. Donald is survived by his beloved daughters, Nancy A. (Kevin) Soland of Joliet and Karen L. Senffner of Lombard, IL; cherished grandchildren, Bryan M. (Melissa) Soland, Sara J. Senffner, Jennifer L. Soland, Michelle N. (Martin) Thompson, Nicholas K. Soland, Melissa D. Senffner; eight precious great-grandchildren; kind sister, Jacqueline Pommerening; dear brother, Dennis (Sharon) Senffner; loving sister-in-law, Shirley Klimek; former, always in our hearts daughter-in-law, Susan (David) Shue; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends also survive. During this very difficult time, the family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from family members, friends, neighbors and the entire staff at Joliet Area Community Hospice. Funeral Services for Donald E. Senffner will be held Friday, December 4, 2015 at 9:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black (at Essington) Rds, Joliet to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors under the auspices of the United States Army. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated. Visitation Thursday, 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home.