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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COMMEMORATING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE HONORABLE JEAN ESCH
WHEREAS, Jean Esch represented the best qualities of citizenship and humanity through her life-long work as a community leader and as an elected official. Her love of politics and leadership abilities were put to work for her community when she was elected by the voters of Evanston’s Fourth Ward to be their Alderman. When she died at the age of 91 she left behind a family, countless friends and a community enriched for having known her; and
WHEREAS, Jean Esch was a longtime leader in environmental and ecology issues. Her tireless work was recognized when she was selected to receive the 2003 Community Service Award for her involvement with Evanston’s Ecology Center; and
WHEREAS, Jean Esch forged strong bonds with her fellow elected officials that outlasted their terms of office and spanned decades. She served with great distinction and earned the respect and affection of her co-workers, many of whom also describe themselves as friends; and
WHEREAS, Jean Esch was a leader who firmly supported efficiency in government. She had the unique ability to regularly achieve her goals without rancor and, as a result was genuinely admired and respected by her peers. Her wisdom and critical thinking made her an asset to the city, her pleasant demeanor and sense of humor made her a delightful colleague with whom to work; and
WHEREAS, Jean Esch and her late husband Wilbert moved to Evanston in 1944 and raised their family there; daughters Carol, Barbara, Deborah and Cynthia and sons Lawrence and Donald. She will be sorely missed by her 16 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and
WHEREAS, a memorial mass was held at St. Mary's Church in Evanston on Saturday, February 13, 2016. Many of the people whose lives she improved celebrated the life of a woman who had such a positive impact on the community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, on behalf of the 5.2 million residents of Cook County commemorates the extraordinary life of Jean Esch and herewith expresses its sincere gratitude for the invaluable contributions she has made to the Citizens of Cook County, Illinois; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that an official copy of the same be tendered to the family of Jean Esch.end