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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COMMEMORATING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF THE HONORABLE DAVIDSON REAM
WHEREAS, Former Evanston Alderman of the 9th Ward Davidson “Dave” Ream died on August 21, 2017 at the age at age 80; and
WHEREAS, Alderman Ream left behind a lasting legacy of positive change that is still visible today in the 9th ward of Evanston. In the 1970’s Dave Ream became a community activist. In addition to other issues he was particularly concerned with zoning issues impacting the 9th ward. Later, in 1983, he was elected to be one of the two alderman of the 9th Ward. Along with the other 9th Ward alderman, Donald Borah, the two oversaw the modernization of the city through the deep tunnel and new street lights. His leadership led to the construction of the city’s service center for garbage trucks along with countless other modernization projects. The residents of the 9th ward were served tirelessly by Dave Ream; and
WHEREAS, while an alderman, Dave Ream set the highest standards for integrity. He will long be remembered for his thorough work, professionalism and quiet demeanor. He was uniformly regarded as collegial and respectful. Former Evanston Mayor Lorrain Morton described Dave Ream as a “balanced and positive man who was known for his quiet authority”; and
WHEREAS, in addition to his election to public office, Dave Ream was a major force for good in the community. He was active in many civic organizations; he served as President of the Ridgeville Neighbors Association; and
WHEREAS, Dave Ream was a lawyer, legal writer and editor. He was a graduate of Phillips Academy, Yale University, and the University of Virginia Law School of law as well as Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of California, Berkley and he served his country in the United States Army; and
WHEREAS, Dave Ream is survived by his children, Michael (Judy Walden), Caitlin Cowan (Michael), his partner Jane Baker and her children, John Negronida and Beth Negronida (Charles Saxe), his grandchildren, Sofia Ream, Tabitha Cowan, Susanna Cowan, Lindsey Saxe and Eric Saxe and his siblings Jackson Ream, Nancy Rose and Christopher Ream; 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 life of Davidson Ream, and herewith expresses its sincere gratitude for the contributions he 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 Davidson Ream.
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