Mundelein honors public works director for 35 years of service
Deputy Public Works Director Joe De Vito was feted by Mundelein officials Monday for his 35 years as a village employee.
Among the officials who praised De Vito's work was Trustee Ray Semple, who grew up with De Vito in Mundelein. They've remained lifelong friends.
“I'm real proud of you,” Semple told De Vito during the evening's board meeting as the honoree sat with his family in the audience.
De Vito, 52, joined the village staff in September 1979 as a laborer in the street maintenance division. He rose through the ranks over time, serving as assistant street superintendent and then street superintendent before taking on his current role in 1999.
De Vito doubles as deputy director of the engineering department, too.
Mayor Steve Lentz read a proclamation that detailed De Vito's work experience. When De Vito rose to receive a copy of the award, he got a standing ovation from the board.
“Thank you very much for this honor,” De Vito said. “I'll continue to give you many more years of good service.”
In an interview, De Vito said he never expected to work for the village for so many years when he first took the job.
“Thirty-five years is a very long time,” he said.
De Vito recalled working “many long hours” through snowstorms and water-main breaks.
“I can say I've worked (on) some of the hottest days and in some of the coldest conditions, and I've come through it all unscathed,” he said. “I've enjoyed it. It's been a very fun ride.”