Dennis Michael Degelmann Sr.

August 28, 1944 – July 10, 2026 

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Degelmann, Sr., who passed away on July 10, 2026, at the age of 81. 

Born on August 28, 1944, to the late Sophia and the late Ernest Degelmann, Dennis was raised in Chicago, Illinois. He lived a life defined by love, laughter, integrity, hard work, and service to others. At just 17 years old, he met Kathleen Gallagher, the love of his life, beginning a remarkable love story that would span more than six decades. Together, they built a beautiful life; they raised their family in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where love, laughter, and unwavering support were the foundations of their home. 

Dennis’s professional life was marked by a deep commitment to his community. After early years with the Jay’s Potato Chip Company (1965-1969), he entered the Police Academy in April of 1970 leading to 26 years with the Skokie Police Department until his retirement on April 5, 1996. 

As a detective, he worked in many departments including the Youth Division, fraud and deceptive practices. He earned the respect of fellow officers and the community through his integrity, fairness, and unwavering dedication. Throughout his career, he also served as a Court Liaison Officer, Field Training Officer, and Evidence Technician. 

Following his retirement from the police department, Dennis continued his investigative career with Household International Bank from 1996-1998 before becoming the Director of Security for Niles Township High School District 219 in 1998. There, he transformed the district’s security program by implementing innovative safety measures, expanding security operations, and creating a secure environment for thousands of students, staff, and visitors. His leadership and commitment left a lasting legacy that continues today. He was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Police and the Knights of Columbus.  

While Dennis was proud of his professional accomplishments, nothing brought him greater joy than his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a loyal friend. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor, a generous heart, and a quiet strength that made everyone around him feel safe and loved. Even during his final days following a heart attack, his wit and humor never left him, bringing comfort and smiles to those who surrounded him. 

Dennis was the beloved husband of Kathleen nee Gallagher, loving father of Dawn Marie (Christopher) Betz, Dennis Michael (Margaret) Degelmann Jr. and Carrie Ann (Dylan) Hodgdon, cherished grandfather of Christopher Jr., Michael, and Daniel Betz, Emily and Molly Degelmann, Shayla and Kaylin Hodgdon, dear brother of Robert (Joyce) Degelmann, Tim (Gina) Sedin, Tom Sedin, and Nancy Doyle. Loving brother-in-law of Patricia (Ted) Skonberg, John (Diane) Gallagher, and Mark Gallagher.  

Dear brother of the late James (late Gwen) Degelmann, late David (Barbara) Degelmann, the late Russell (Vicky) Degelmann, the late Kathryn Davis and the late Barbara Jean (Late Richard) Ziemann and many treasured nieces and nephews, other extended family members, lifelong friends, former colleagues, neighbors, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him. 

Dennis will be remembered for his love of life, his spontaneous sense of adventure, and his eagerness to discover what was next. Above all, he treasured every opportunity to connect with his children and grandchildren whether through sharing his love for the Cubs, pen making, wood working, boating, camping or simply spending time together sharing stories and laughing around the table.  

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his love lives on through the family he cherished and in the countless lives he touched throughout his life. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 4-8 p.m., at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 E. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004. 

A second visitation will be held on Thursday, July 16,  2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Edna Catholic Church, 2525 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004. Interment will be in All Saints Cemetery, Des Plaines, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association in Dennis’ memory. 

“The man, the myth, the legend”