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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE OF KENNETH A. PETERSON, JR.
WHEREAS, Kenneth A. Peterson, Jr., a lifelong resident of Steger, Illinois, who was called home unexpectedly on September 16, 2024, at the age of 58; and
WHEREAS, Ken was not just a remarkable figure in his community, but first and foremost, a beloved husband for 26 years to Alice Peterson and a devoted father to their children. His heart overflowed with love for his grandchildren, Mia and Luna, who knew him affectionately as 'Pop.' He was also a loving brother to Kim (Phil) Hantak and Kari Kunkes, and a dedicated son to the late Kenneth A. Peterson, Sr. and Marilyn Peterson; and
WHEREAS, Ken's brilliance and dedication shone early in life, earning a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in 1988 with cum laude honors, and later graduating with magna cum laude distinction in 1991 with a Juris Doctorate from Indiana University. He excelled in his professional career, rising to become a respected Partner at the esteemed law firm Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, LLP in Chicago, where he was admired not only for his legal acumen but for his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering integrity; and
WHEREAS, Ken’s spirit of service was felt deeply in his community. As a lifelong resident of Steger, Ken first served as Village Trustee in 2003, and over the years took on multiple leadership roles including Chairperson of Steger’s Economic Development Committee and Chairman of the Board of Fire & Police Commissioners. In 2013, his community entrusted him with the honor of being their 21st Village President, a role he held with pride and in which he proved his steadfast dedication to improving the lives of the residents he served; and
WHEREAS, beyond his professional and civic duties, Ken's greatest joy came from nurturing the younger generation. Whether as a coach in the Steger Basketball Program or through his deep involvement in the Boy Scouts of America-where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1980-Ken exemplified what it means to lead by example. Together with his wife Alice, they nurtured Pack 173, the Cub Scout Pack he had belonged to as a boy, and they went on to form Boy Scout Troop 173, alongside Ken’s father, which flourished under their guidance; and
WHEREAS, Ken and Alice’s involvement in Steger’s Kiwanis Club further demonstrated their shared commitment to the well-being of children and the community at large. Through their selfless service, they stood as beacons of hope, compassion, and community spirit, touching countless lives in ways both seen and unseen; and
WHEREAS, Ken's legacy of kindness, wisdom, and service will continue to shine in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him. His leadership and love leave an indelible mark on his family, friends, and the community he devoted his life to. His presence, though no longer with us, will forever be felt in the spaces he once filled with his warmth and generosity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, on behalf of the President, the members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, and the 5.2 million residents of Cook County, we stand together in shared sorrow to honor the beautiful life and cherished legacy of Kenneth A. Peterson; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this board recognizes and celebrates the life of Kenneth A. Peterson, Jr., for his extraordinary service, selflessness, and unwavering love for his family, his community, and his profession; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Kenneth A. Peterson, Jr. as a lasting tribute to his life of remarkable kindness, leadership, and dedication to the people of Cook County and beyond.
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