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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE LIFE OF JOHN WILSON (JACK) MCALLISTER
WHEREAS, John Wilson (Jack)McAllister, was a lifelong resident of Cook County, and an advocate for people living with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Jack was born in 1950. After growing up in Northbrook, he became a longtime Wilmette resident whose large number of friends was legendary; and
WHEREAS, Jack was a standout athlete in swimming and baseball at both Glenbrook North and Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois; and
WHEREAS, Jack worked after college as a mental health aide at Evanston Hospital and studied Rolfing and Massage therapy. These experiences led to his desire to serve people living with disabilities: and
WHEREAS, Jack was married to Colleen. They raised their two children Katelynn and Jack in Wilmette; and
WHEREAS, Jack was employed for many years by Orchard Village, a leading residential program for people living with disabilities, where he held various leadership positions; and
WHEREAS, Jack played key roles in Orchard Village's expansion in Skokie and led efforts to raise funds to support all programing; and
WHEREAS, Jack had the reputation for being a leader on whatever task he undertook from backyard parties to sailing excursions.; and
WHEREAS, Jack was the neighbor who organized many spontaneous events and who coordinated volunteers to help anyone in need; and
WHEREAS, Jack overcame many health challenges during his life. In the last few years, he was forced to retire because of illness. Colleen and his family provided loving quality care for him during the remaining years of his life. He showed grace under difficult circumstances: 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, honors the life and work of John Wilson (Jack) McAllister and herewith expresses its sincere gratitude for the invaluable contributions he made to the Citizens of Cook County, Illi...
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