Terence Francis Leen

Terence Francis Leen, age 87, of Elmhurst, following a brief illness. Preceded in death by his dear wife, Jessica Witker Leen. Beloved father of Patrick, Elizabeth (Michael) Spratley, Moira (Scott) Savel, Jennifer (Jeffrey) Mussatto, Ellen (Richard) Behles, and Michael (Jane) Leen. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Megan and Hannah Leen, Jessica and Sean Spratley, Miranda Savel (fiancé Tim Gilmore), Alex and Maddy Carroll, Jack and Matt Anderson and Emma, Abby and Charlie Leen; Dear brother of John (Fran) Leen and Madonna Leen. Fond brother-in-law of Judy Witker, Peter (Carolyn) Witker, Cathie (Carl) Jaffe, and Anne (Richard) Hartley. Cherished uncle of Patrick (Laura) Leen, John (Jordan) Leen, Elizabeth (Brian) Reynolds, Steven Witker, and Blair and Brett Hartley. Terry was born in Chicago and raised in Oak Park, Illinois, son of Margaret and Patrick Leen. He attended Fournier Institute of Technology for both high school and his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. He then earned his MBA from St. Louis University, where he met Jessica. After their marriage in 1959, they moved to South Bend, Indiana, where he worked for Emerson Electric. Upon moving to Elmhurst, Terry was employed as a marketing executive with Amphenol, TRW Cinch, and Switchcraft. Terry joined Jessica as an avid volunteer within his community and at Visitation Parish, including serving on the church council and as a PADS volunteer. Terry and Jessica taught religious education and led marriage preparation instruction. Although he did not read music, Terry shared his Irish tenor as a performer in the popular parish fundraiser, Far From Broadway, and most recently as a member of the church choir. In addition to many hours working behind the scenes, he and Jessica co-chaired a production of Far from Broadway. Within the community, Terry served as an alderman in the city of Elmhurst in 1965. He was also the Chairman of Elmhurst for Freedom of Residency Today (EFFORT) from 1968-1970. Terry first got involved in politics when he and others in the community came together to oppose provisions in real estate contracts that forbade sale to people of color. Terry will be profoundly missed by his family and his many friends throughout the community. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to DuPage PADS, 601 West Liberty, Wheaton, IL 60187. Masses are appreciated. Visitation Friday, July 16, 2021, 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 pm. at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 S. York Road, (½ mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst. Friends and family will meet for a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, July 17, 2021, 10:00 a.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Road, (At Madison), Elmhurst. Interment will be private. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com