With deep appreciation and sadness, we remember Michael Constant, a valued member of the DeKalb County Community Foundation Board of Directors and a dedicated community advocate, who passed away on May 20, 2025.

Mike and his wife Debbie moved to Hinckley in 1991. Outside of work and public service, they shared a love of Irish Terriers and spent many years traveling to agility competitions. Mike also gave his time and leadership to several canine organizations, serving in a variety of board and officer roles.

A Legacy of Service

Mike joined the Community Foundation Board in 2021 as the representative for Hinckley and most recently served as Vice President. He quickly became a steady and thoughtful presence at the table. Mike brought a passion for small-town life, a sharp financial mind, a sense of humor, and a deep sense of service to everything he did.

“Hinckley is a small, vibrant, welcoming community,” he once shared. “It is enriching to work for the fine people in Hinckley.”

That dedication came through in every aspect of his service—from his 20 years as a Village Trustee and Planning Commission member to his leadership on the Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals and his role in helping launch Hinckley’s Harvesting Our Future initiative. Mike’s love for his hometown was clear, and his steady, thoughtful leadership left a real, lasting impact.

At the Foundation, Mike was a trusted voice on our Grants Committee—compassionate, observant, and always focused on the big picture. He also helped lead the way as chair of our Impact Investing Committee, helping to launch a new community investment tool that we’ll continue to build on for years to come.

We’re incredibly grateful for the time, care, and insight Mike brought to the Foundation. He believed in our mission and helped shape the way forward. Mike often said he felt fortunate to be part of the Community Foundation—we feel just as fortunate to have served alongside him. His legacy of service, integrity, and love for his community won’t be forgotten.

Honoring Mike

In Mike’s honor, memorial contributions can be made to the Hinckley Community Endowment Fund. Created in his memory, this endowed Fund provides grant support to organizations located in and/or serving Hinckley, IL—with a preference for those based directly in the village.