Dante De Santis

Dante De Santis - 90

6/20/1921 - 8/6/2011

Glenwood, Illinois

Dante L. De Santis, age 90. A longtime Glenwood resident, he was born June 21, 1921 in Chicago. Partner with Robinson Engineering. An Army veteran of WWII, he was a 1st Sergeant with the 361st Engineers Special Regiment which landed at Omaha Beach on Dec. 11, 1943. As the war in Europe ended, Sgt. De Santis and his Regiment were deployed to Japan to assist the war efforts in the Pacific Theater. After completing his military service he attended Wilson Jr. College and the University of Illinios – Navy Pier Extension. He was employed by the Cook County Highway Departments Highway Design Division for 19 years. As the Assistant Division Head, he was instrumental in the designs of the Metropolitan Expressway System which exists to date. Mr. De Santis left the Cook County Highway Dpt. In 1965 to join Robinson Engineering Ltd. as a Civil Engineer. He became a Partner in 1976 and served as Secreatry-Treasurer of the firm, retiring in 2003. Mr. De Santis was a Trustee for the Village of Glenwood before being elected Mayor in 1969 and serving one term until 1973. He was a member of the Glenwood Lions Club and American Legion Roseland Post 49. Husband for 65 years of Kathryn “Kay” nee Search. Father of Gregory and Brent (late Lori nee Pietrowicz) De Santis, and the late Sharon Luanne (Mark) Hardwick. Grandfather of Brandon Hardwick, Gina (Christopher Beavers) De Santis and Brent Bachmann. Brother of the late Anthony (late Lucille) and Mario (late Elizabeth) De Santis. Beloved uncle, devoted co-worker and dear friend of many. Dante’s elegant and humble nature will be remembered with affection by all fortunate to have known him. Resting at Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, 530 W. 14th St (US Rt. 30, 3 Blks E. of Western Ave) Chicago Heights on Tuesday Aug. 9th from 3:00 to 9:00 PM. Funeral Wednesday 9:15 Am to St. Joseph Church, 17951 S. Dixie Hwy, Homewood. Mass 10:00 AM. Interment Assumption Cemetery, Glenwood. 708 481-9230.