North Central College Athletics

Accomplishments: The fourth miracle-worker behind the 1976 “$18,000 Miracle in Naperville” that created the former football stadium with sweat equity and donated materials and services; also served as construction consultant for the College’s new stadiums and Championship Plaza; instrumental in building North Central’s athletic complex — and many projects across campus — over the decades; varsity football player for two years; former trustee; recipient of the Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1977.

Deetjen, after his careers at North Central and Lane Tech, began his life in Naperville with his wife, Mary, where they lived for 48 years. After marrying at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Don raised his children in the suburb and became involved in the community, serving as a trustee at NCC. In addition to his service to the college, Deetjen owned Markur Contractors and Industrial Concrete. He also was active in the Concrete Contractors Association of Greater Chicago as he sat as Executive Vice President, and involved himself on committees and boards of organized labor. The updated scoreboard in Benedetti-Wherli Stadium has been named in Deetjen's honor.