Victor Harrison Temple

Victor Harrison Temple, age 76 of Clare Oaks Senior Living in Bartlett, formerly a long-time resident of St. Charles, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2019 after a brief illness. 

He was born December 2, 1942 in Wilmington, Delaware, the only child of Harrison S. Temple and Blanche L. (Townsend) Temple. He is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Virginia L. Temple, his “true companion” of 52 years; daughters Kristin (Thomas O’Rourke) Burmeister of Lake Zurich and Karen (Robert) Vavra of St. Charles; grandchildren Makayla and Mason Burmeister and Robert, Joseph and Jadyn Vavra.    

He was very proud of the fine professional women, wives and mothers his daughters had become and greatly respected his sons-in-law.  Vic was a devoted and involved grandfather to his five grandchildren. Over the years he cared for them, attended their performances, programs and enjoyed vacations together. 

One of his proudest achievements was receiving his bachelor’s degree from Iowa Wesleyan College and his Masters’ degree from the University of Illinois, and additional graduate work from the University of Michigan.

Vic’s working life was spent primarily in Aurora, Il.  He felt that it was his calling to serve the children and youth of West Aurora District 129 as a teacher of the emotionally disturbed, high school and middle school counselor, middle school Dean and administrator. After 31 years he retired in 1999. 

Vic’s life can be characterized as one who served his God, family, church (Baker Memorial United Methodist Church), community and the world. He served on many church committees and offices and was actively involved in several local service organizations such as; Kiwanis, Unity Masonic Lodge of St. Charles, Salvation Army, TriCity Family Services, and Glenwood School for Boys.  He volunteered his time to international organizations including Eagle Nature Foundation, World Vision and Compassion International. Vic felt very connected to his church and the missions they served.  Vic especially enjoyed assisting refugees to acclimate to the community.  He identified the members of his church to be part of his extended family.  He especially enjoyed attending the Men’s Bible study at Baker which he found to be spiritually refreshing.

Vic was very active for much of his life.  He enjoyed playing tennis and golf and boating at his condo in Door County.  He was a huge sports fan and an avid follower of the St. Louis Cardinals and the University of Michigan football team. 

Vic’s fifteen minutes of fame came in October 2006 after being nominated by his daughters and subsequently selected as the “Hometown Hero” of St. Charles, which aired on WGN’s radio personalities “Kathy and Judy Show”.

Visitation for Vic will be held Monday, November 25th from 9:30 am until the time of his funeral service at 11:00 am at Baker United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Avenue, St. Charles 60174 with Pastor Mary Zajac officiating.

Inurnment will be held at the Columbarium at Baker United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Tri-City Family Services, 1120 Randall Court, Geneva, 60134 or Baker United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Avenue, St. Charles 60174 would be appreciated.

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