We have sadly learned of the death of long-time friend and colleague, Jeff Setnes, who passed away on Friday August 18, 2023 at the age of 63.
Jeff joined the Registrar’s Office as a summer temp in June 1987 and then moved into his full-time role. Over the years, Jeff continuously expanded his expertise and knowledge. He was one of the quiet, unsung heroes in DePaul’s transition from a manual, mainframe environment to the systems that we use today.
Jeff was a true academic records professional. He noticed everything, remembered everything. His integrity and dedication were unparalleled. Each record represented a person, and he thought that there should be no errors in the story of that person’s life at DePaul. Jeff was a great colleague, always willing to help his co-workers with the intricacies of degree conferral or to sleuth out any issues with a record. He had a great sense of humor and made us laugh every day, including his favorite day of the year—Paczki Day, the day before Lent begins, when he could consume an unbelievable number of those delicious filled donuts.
He was proud of his family’s nearly 70 years of service to DePaul: mother Ginny (Admission), brother Greg (Registrar, Advancement), and sister Debbie (EMM). He retired from DePaul in June, after serving the university for 36 years, and his colleagues have already missed him dearly.
Jeff grew up in North Dakota and Illinois and was a long-time resident of Clarendon Hills. When he wasn’t at work, he was out spending time in nature. In addition to his DePaul friends, Jeff is mourned by Ginny (mother), Danita (sister), Deb (sister), Greg (brother), and Kevin (brother), as well as his nephews, grand-nephews, and grand-niece.
Services were held on August 24th. Online condolences may be submitted at https://www.tews-ryanfh.com/obituary/jeffrey-jeff-setnes