IN MEMORIAM
FORMER PARK BOARD COMMISSIONER TOM PONTARELLI
GLENVIEW PARK DISTRICT REMEMBERS A VISIONARY LEADER AND LIFELONG PUBLIC SERVANT
The Glenview Park District mourns the passing of former Park Board Commissioner Tom Pontarelli, who served the Glenview community with distinction for 19 years. Tom was elected to the Park Board in December 1984 and dedicated nearly two decades to public service before concluding his tenure in April 2003. During that time, he held the role of Park Board President on three occasions( 1987 / 1988, 1993 / 1994, and 2000 / 2001) and served twice as Vice President( 1992 / 1993 and 1999 / 2000).
Tom’ s time on the Board was marked by a period of pivotal growth and transformation for the Park District. Tom was instrumental in developing the Park District’ s strategy to obtain land at the former Glenview Naval Air Station for the construction of Park Center and the Glenview Prairie Club, which was formerly the Glenview National 9. He provided leadership during the acquisition of Gallery Park, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, Schram Memorial Chapel and Historic Wagner Farm. Tom was also part of the team that reviewed plans for the construction of both Park Center and the golf course at Glenview Prairie Club.
Former Division Directors and staff who worked closely with Tom remember him for his strategic vision, intellect and quiet confidence. He helped forge consensus and ensured that every commissioner felt heard and valued.
Beyond his official roles, Tom’ s contributions to the Park District were deeply personal. Tom met his wife, Hilary, at a neighborhood Christmas party in Glenview’ s Cole Park. His day job at Washington National Insurance never overshadowed his dedication to Glenview’ s parks, programs and people.
Tom Pontarelli was a lifelong Glenview resident and is survived by his wife of 53 years Hilary, their four children, Amanda( Jonathan) Chiarieri, Tyler( Elizabeth), Noelle, and Lindsay( Michael) Ferber, along with seven grandchildren.
Center Photo: Nancy Firfer( former Village President) and former Park Board Commissioners Douglas Kaiser, Catherine Crowley, Thomas Pontarelli and former staff member Bob Quill
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