Don Umphryes, 70, of Willowbrook, has come out of retirement before to work on a project, and he didn’t hesitate to do it again when Christ Church of Oak Brook sought his expertise as construction manager for its new contemporary worship auditorium.
Q: Is your professional background in construction?
A: I was an electric contractor and a construction project manager. I stayed on the road for about 25 years while I was doing that and retired about four years ago, but was asked to come back after six months and worked on a project for about 1 1/2 years. Now, I’m back again for the church.
Q: Did you have a history with Christ Church of Oak Brook before becoming construction manager for this project?
A: I took part in activities at several churches when I was on the road and became a member of the church here about eight years ago after I met my wife, Susan. I was project manager for Elmhurst Hospital at the time and have volunteered at the church.
Q: How long have you and Susan been married?
A: Seven years. We have five kids, ages 38 to 52, between us, and nine grandchildren.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: We have two Rottweilers and a Chihuahua. Susan works with Rottweiler rescue.
Q: When you were a little boy, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I grew up on a farm, but always wanted to do construction because I had uncles who did that.
Q: What’s your biggest pet peeve?
A: People who are not accountable for themselves, people who would rather be on welfare than have a job.
Q: Who should play you in a movie about your life?
A: Robert Redford, he’s the best.
Q: What’s your favorite food?
A: Pizza, Chicago deep-dish style
Q: What do you like on your pizza?
A: Pepperoni, onions and mushrooms
Q: What’s your favorite area restaurant?
A: Portillo’s
Shout Out is a weekly feature in which we get to know and introduce our readers to their fellow community members and local visitors throughout suburban Chicago. Check out more online at ChicagoTribune.com/ShoutOut.
Twitter @chuckwriting
