Donald C. Halverson, lifelong resident of Des Plaines, died peacefully at his home early Sunday morning. Born May 3, 1934, Don was a proud graduate of Maine East high school, a scholarship athlete at the University of Iowa and a member of the US army. He was married to his high school sweetheart Helen (nee Book) for over 50 years, until her passing in 2014. Don worked in the auto industry before finding his true calling, golf. An avid golfer and, at Nevada Bobs, an even better golf store manager, Don truly loved the sport and playing it with his family, especially Helen. Don never met a person he didn't want to make smile. Ever the jokester, whether driving up ON the sidewalk to drop his kids off at school, or offering to pay for dinner with a library card, Don was always good for a laugh. A proud father, he often showed up to his kids workplaces to brag about them, or to tell anyone who'd listen that "he knew the boss". That pride transferred to his three grandchildren, Izzy, Emma and Charlie, who he boasted about incessantly and loved intensely. He was "Halve" to his high school pals, "Dad" to his three kids, "Uncle Don" to his nieces and nephews, "Big Daddy" to his sons-in-law and "Papa" to his grandkids. To everyone else, he was just the nicest guy you'd ever wanna meet. Don is survived by his children, Keith (Calvin) Halverson, Dawn (Brian) Reno and Kerri (Daniel) Arthur, by his grandchildren Isabella, Emma and Charles Reno, and several nieces and nephews. There will be a celebration of Don's life soon, when we can all gather again. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home. For info please call (847) 699-9003.