Don Lackowski was an active member of the Illini Club Board of Directors for about 20 years.  After getting his Electrical Engineering degree at the University of Illinois, Don became a Naval Officer.  As a loyal Illini, Don proudly wore his Illini gear wherever he went and was frequently approached by other Illini in far flung places such as the mountains of Austria.

Don participated in many of the Club's activities.  For many years he was the face of our participation at Los Pen elementary school's No Excuses University.  He would deliver Illini T-Shirts to the 2nd grade class of Illini teacher, Sheri Decremer.  He would attend their annual College Career Fair and answer questions from disadvantaged children to inspire them to consider a college education.  Don loved the children, and they loved seeing him, and performing the Illini cheers for him.

Don also arranged the facilities for many of the Club's Annual Banquets which were often held in naval operated facilities such as the Admiral Kidd and Admiral Baker clubs.  Don interfaced with the facilities, made the arrangements and coordinated the activities.

As a docent on the USS Midway, Don also organized several privately guided tours of the ship for interested Illini Club members.  He made all the arrangements and personally conducted the tours, sometimes visiting areas of the ship that were not accessed during the public tours.

Don was a dedicated, life-long Illini who frequently revisited campus for events organized by the Alumni Association.  His presence is already missed by all those who knew him.

Don's memorial service will be on Monday, May 3 and will include full military honors.  Guests should arrive by 10:15 and the service will begin at 11:00 and last about 90 minutes.  We are limited to about 15 Illini guests, so if you would like to attend you MUST register.  Click on the link below to sign up now.