SR1294 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1294 LRB102 29637 ECR 41664 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of James "Jim" W. Lear of Springfield, who passed away on October 16, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear was born to Ralph Foster and Hazel (Murphey) Lear in Tuscola on December 18, 1933; he married Virginia Ellen Reid; he was drafted in 1954 by the U.S. Army during the Korean War and served in Daegu, Pusan, and Ascon City for two years; he graduated from the University of Illinois in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science and studied in the Department of Health and Family Services; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear worked for 30 years with the Illinois Department of Public Aid; he first worked in Tuscola and then with the Responsible Relative Program in Springfield, where he provided support for children in the state system; he was proud to be an executive in the development of the Illinois Food Stamps program and to oversee the decision making in related welfare programs; he enjoyed taking early retirement in 1991; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear had a passion for engineering and technology and was always researching the latest in all things audio-visual or automotive; he even took a class to learn how to build his own television and stereo system and was endlessly tweaking his electronics for the most perfect sound; he also loved good classical and instrumental music, especially the organ; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear enjoyed traveling the U.S. as well as watching a good baseball, football, or basketball game, no matter the team; he usually rooted for the Bears, was thrilled to see the Cubs win the World Series, and was a true Illini fan; he loved a good Manhattan, a steak dinner, pizza on a Friday night, and any dessert; he was a great listener with a quick wit and an always present laugh; he was deeply committed to his faith and offered all an example on how to live with grace, kindness, and courage; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; his son, Samuel Reid; and his brother, Bill Lear; and

WHEREAS, Jim Lear is survived by his daughter, Ruth Ellen (Dave) Ficke; his granddaughter, Nora Ellen Ficke; and several nieces and nephews; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of James "Jim" W. Lear and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Jim Lear as an expression of our deepest sympathy.