Donald Edward Matschke

Donald "Don" Edward Matschke, age 93, of Traverse City, Michigan, formerly of Glen Arbor, Michigan, and Hinsdale, Illinois, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026.

Don was born on March 10, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Harry and Elizabeth (Hoods) Matschke.

Don grew up in Glenview, Illinois. He was a proud alumnus of Northwestern University, where he earned three degrees, including a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering. His career focused on water and wastewater treatment infrastructure with Chicago Bridge & Iron and Bauer Engineering before he founded his own engineering consulting firm, D.E. Matschke Company. He also served as General Chairman of the Cook County Clean Streams Committee. He earned his real estate license, adding another dimension to his professional life. Later, Don dedicated his expertise to the Glen Lake Association, helping protect the lake he loved so deeply. Whether through his work or personal interests, Don was drawn to the water and found great purpose in protecting and enjoying it.

Don and Suzanne Merrill Chaffee were married for nearly 40 years and raised their family in Hinsdale, Illinois. Suzanne spent time at Glen Lake during her childhood and introduced Don to northern Michigan early in their relationship. He quickly fell in love with the area's natural beauty, and the family spent countless summer and winter breaks there before making it their full-time home in 1988.

Don was involved in his community as a member of the Glen Lake School Board, coaching youth soccer, serving as commodore of the Glen Lake Yacht Club, and helping develop the GLYC Foundation. He loved spending time on the water, taking long walks, gathering with family and friends, and making last-minute runs for ice cream before heading to Lake Michigan to catch the sunset.

Those who knew Don will remember his sharp intellect, kindness, and genuine ability to make others feel welcome.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Suzanne "Sunshine" Matschke, and his grandson, James Matschke. He is survived by his four children, of whom he was immensely proud: Mason H.C. Matschke of The Woodlands, Texas; Mary (Allen) Fry of Charleston, South Carolina; H. Merrill Matschke of Vernon Hills, Illinois; and Meghan Matschke (Peter Geise) of Louisville, Colorado.

In his later years, Don was fortunate to find love again with Mary Mintz, who brought him great happiness and companionship. The two shared many wonderful years in Traverse City, and Mary cared for him with remarkable love and dedication.

Don was also blessed with his grandchildren: Will, Ben, and Ian Matschke; Harry, Wynn, Milo, and Charlotte Matschke; and Emery Geise.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the Glen Lake Association. Donations can be made at www.glenlakeassociation.org/donate/.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Don's family on his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.