Wheaton pedestrian killed in early morning accident

A Wheaton man was killed early Friday when he was struck by a car on Geneva Road near Wheaton, DuPage County sheriff’s officials said.

Shawn D. Somerville, 49, was struck by a car heading west on Geneva Road near Knollwood Drive about 12:15 a.m., sheriff’s spokeswoman Dawn Domrose said.

Somerville was pronounced dead at the scene and the accident remains under investigation, officials said.

His family described Somerville as an “avid outdoorsman with a passion for family, food and friends” in a prepared statement.

“Our family is devastated by the death of our wonderful father, husband, son, brother and dear friend,” the statement said. “In this holy season, we are reminded of the gifts of family and friends we have been blessed with — especially our beloved Shawn.”

Rev. George E. Smith of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Glen Ellyn said Somerville was an outstanding human being, a wonderful father, husband and great friend.

“This is a tragedy that is unfathomable to me and to our entire congregation,” Smith said. “I have assured his wife and children that our church and community will surround them with our prayer and love.”

Somerville moved to Wheaton from Minneapolis in 2009 with his wife, Joanie, and two children, according to the church’s website. He was employed at William Blair and Co. in Chicago in the municipal bond department and served as vice-president of his neighborhood homeowners association.

He also served on the financial committee for St. Mark’s, and was a member of the church vestry.

“He was a wonderful involved family man,” Smith said. “He was a good man of faith and a good friend of mine as well. He will be missed.”

Sheriff’s officials said they were still trying to determine why Somerville was in the roadway. They said the driver stopped immediately and called 911. No citations were issued.

Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to call the sheriff’s office at (630) 682-7256.