Don Nowotny, Long-Time 46th Ward Streets & San Supervisor, Has Passed Away

We are extremely sad to hear of the recent passing of Don Nowotny, former 46th Ward Streets & San supervisor and candidate for alderman, at age 75.

Known as "The Ponytail," Don was a familiar sight around the ward in his white city truck. Appointed by former alderman Helen Shiller, he was a long-time Uptown resident and held the position of ward superintendent for nearly two decades. 

He was extremely helpful when residents participated in Clean & Green and block parties, and was extraordinarily responsive to residents' complaints about early garbage truck pickups and littered lots.

When Ald. Shiller made the announcement she wouldn't run for another term, Don threw his hat in the ring in May 2010. In a crowded field of 12 candidates, he finished in fourth place, missing the 2011 aldermanic run-off. His reaction was "It was fun while it lasted. Thank you to everyone who could be a part of the experience."

Don retired from his job with the City in June 2011.

From his obituary, we learned that Don served in the Army Corps of Engineers and earned an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

"The Ponytail" was a good guy and will be missed. Our thoughts are with his husband, Carl McDowell, and all his friends who feel his loss.

Services will be held in Don's hometown in Iowa.