Donald Aloysius Kauth Obituary and Death: Beloved Family Patriarch and Military Veteran, Donald Aloysius Kauth, Passes at 91. A Legacy of Love, Leadership, and Lasting Friendships Spanning Generations
On September 28, 2024, Donald Aloysius Kauth, a beloved family figure, military veteran, and successful businessman, passed away peacefully at the age of 91, surrounded by his cherished family at Ascension Alexian Brothers Hospice Residence in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Known by many affectionate titles — Dad, Papa, Big Papa, Uncle Don, and Mr. K — Donald was a beacon of love, loyalty, and dedication to his family, friends, and community. His life’s journey, filled with rich experiences, touched many hearts from Berwyn to Germany and most recently in Elk Grove Village, where he resided for the past 65 years.
A Life Anchored in Family and Love
Donald’s life was nothing short of extraordinary, defined by his unwavering love for his family. Born on May 4, 1933, to Aloysius and Marie Kauth in Chicago, Illinois, he was the youngest of three children, following his two older sisters, Mary and Evelyn. From a young age, Donald displayed the values of hard work, perseverance, and loyalty — traits that would shape his legacy as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Donald’s pride and joy were his marriage and the family he built with his beloved wife, Rosemary Camodeca. On October 13, 1956, they exchanged vows at Our Lady of Charity Catholic Church in Cicero, Illinois, beginning a lifelong journey together. The couple’s union was blessed with four sons: Mark, Craig, Scott, and Joe, whom they raised in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Their home became the heart of family gatherings, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, even as they navigated moments of grief, such as the heartbreaking loss of their eldest son, Mark, to a prolonged illness. Through it all, Donald and Rosemary’s marriage stood as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and shared faith.
In the eyes of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Donald was a source of wisdom, joy, and unwavering support. His face would light up with a radiant smile, and his eyes would sparkle whenever he spent time with his family. Whether it was celebrating athletic achievements, academic successes, weddings, anniversaries, or birthdays, Donald made it a point to honor every accomplishment. His presence at these family events was a reminder of the deep bond that connected them all, a bond that will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Early Life and Military Service
Donald’s childhood in Berwyn, Illinois, was shaped by the values of a tight-knit family and a strong Catholic upbringing. He attended St. Odilo’s School in Berwyn before moving on to Fenwick High School in Oak Park, where he formed lifelong friendships that remained intact throughout his life. His dedication to his studies and his community laid the foundation for the remarkable life that would follow.
After a brief stint at the University of Illinois Navy Pier, Donald made the decision to postpone his academic pursuits to work and save money for further education. However, his life took a different turn when he chose to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army. During his military service, Donald was stationed in Germany as a Corporal in the 12th Transport Company, where he formed a lifelong bond with his fellow serviceman, Bob Rocque. Their friendship, forged in the trenches of military life, was a source of comfort and camaraderie that would last a lifetime.
Donald’s time in the Army was a pivotal chapter in his life. Not only did it solidify his sense of duty and responsibility, but it also provided him with the skills and discipline that would later serve him well in his career. Upon completing his service, Donald returned home with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to build a life filled with love, success, and meaning.
A Lifetime of Professional Achievement
Donald’s professional life was marked by a dedication to excellence and an unyielding work ethic. His journey in the electrical manufacturing industry began humbly, with Donald sweeping the shop floor as a young man trying to make a living. However, through hard work, determination, and an innate ability to lead, he quickly rose through the ranks.
Donald’s career truly took off when he joined Daniel Woodhead Company, a leading electrical manufacturing firm. Over the years, he earned the respect of his colleagues and peers, eventually becoming President of the company. His leadership and innovative mindset led to the development of several patents, further cementing his legacy as a pioneer in the industry.
After a successful tenure at Daniel Woodhead, Donald’s expertise and leadership caught the attention of his former colleague and friend, Tom O’Gara. Tom invited Donald to join him at Remke Industries, where he played an instrumental role in expanding the company’s reach and success. Donald’s professional achievements were not just a testament to his intelligence and business acumen, but also to his compassion for others. His ability to connect with people and lead with kindness made him a beloved figure in the industry.
Throughout his career, Donald maintained the same humility and integrity that had defined him since his early years. He never forgot where he came from and always prioritized the well-being of his family and those around him. His success in business was matched only by his success in life, as he consistently strived to make the world a better place for those he loved.
A Passion for Golf and the Outdoors
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Donald was a man of many passions. One of his greatest joys was golf, a sport he played with both skill and enthusiasm. Known affectionately as “the Blade” at Itasca Country Club, Donald was renowned for his short game prowess, making him a valuable teammate in club tournaments. His love for golf extended beyond competition; it was a way for him to connect with his wife, Rosemary, and his sons. Sunday afternoons were often spent on the golf course, where laughter, friendly competition, and shared memories abounded.
Donald’s passion for golf was not limited to the greens of Itasca Country Club. He and Rosemary frequently enjoyed rounds together in the couples’ league, creating yet another avenue for their love to flourish. The sport became a symbol of their partnership, as they navigated the highs and lows of both the game and life with grace and humor.
In addition to golf, Donald cherished the time he spent with his family at Lake Tomahawk, where they would gather for vacations and outdoor adventures. These moments, shared in the beauty of nature, were some of Donald’s most treasured memories. Whether it was fishing with his grandchildren or simply enjoying the serenity of the lake, Donald found peace and joy in the simplicity of the great outdoors.
A Legacy of Love and Kindness
As Donald’s family reflects on his life, they remember a man who exemplified love, kindness, and generosity in everything he did. His devotion to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was unmatched, and his impact on their lives will be felt for generations to come. Donald’s legacy is one of deep, unconditional love — a love that transcends time and space.
Donald’s passing marks the end of an era for his family, but it also serves as a reminder of the lasting impact one person can have on the lives of others. His memory will live on in the stories shared at family gatherings, in the lessons he imparted to his children and grandchildren, and in the love that continues to bind his family together.
A Grateful Farewell
The Kauth family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the nurses and staff at New Summit Rehabilitation and Healthcare in Arlington Heights and Ascension Alexian Brother Hospice Residence in Elk Grove Village for the compassionate care they provided to Donald in his final days. The kindness and support of these dedicated professionals brought comfort to both Donald and his family during a difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial gifts be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization close to Donald’s heart. His commitment to helping others, especially children, was a reflection of his generous spirit and his desire to make the world a better place.
Final Farewell and Funeral Arrangements
A visitation will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 3 PM to 8 PM at Grove Memorial Chapel, located at 1199 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. On Friday, October 4, 2024, a funeral mass will be held at 10 AM at Queen of the Rosary Catholic Church in Elk Grove Village. Following the service, a private entombment will take place, where Donald will be laid to rest.
As the family gathers to say their final goodbyes, they will take comfort in the knowledge that Donald’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His life was a testament to the power of love, family, and friendship — a life well-lived, and a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
Donald Aloysius Kauth, 91, will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and a man who left an indelible mark on the world through his kindness, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who will learn of his life through the stories passed down through the generations.