Thaddeus John Mitrenga Jr.

Born in Chicago, IL on October 29th, 1949, to Ted J. Mitrenga and Beatrice P. Mitrenga (Grzempa), Ted grew up alongside his cherished siblings Martin E. Mitrenga (Denise), Gerard M. Mitrenga (Karen), and Therese M. Buckman (Mitrenga). After graduating from St. Joseph's College in Rensselaer, IN, he built a successful career as an entrepreneur and executive in the office equipment industry. It was the relationships he formed, not the business deals, that he treasured most.

Ted was a man whose heart belonged entirely to his family. His love for them was the compass that guided every decision, every sacrifice, every moment. He is survived by his two daughters, Jennifer Mitrenga and Eileen Collins (Chris); his beloved grandchildren, Ava Collins, Matthew Collins, Erin Collins, Nellie Collins and Auren Maymon; his siblings; his cousins Richard Mitrenga (Janet), Greg Grzempa (Linda) and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents.

Beyond family gatherings, you could find Ted on open water with wind in his sails, searching for the perfect fishing spot, or emerging triumphant from yet another Port Washington polar plunge. He was relentless in his pursuit of laughter, armed with the silliest jokes and the most outlandish stories (Cricket Man), and he had a gift for making everyone around him feel lighter, happier, more alive. His kindness and warmth reached far beyond his family to touch his community, colleagues, and the many friends who were blessed to know him.

A service of remembrance will be held at Glueckert Funeral Home on December 14th, 2025, from 2:00-4:00pm, 1520 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, with the service starting at 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the American Heart Association.