SR1291 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1291 LRB102 29717 LAW 41769 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of David Ernest "Dave" Higgins of Peoria, who passed away on November 14, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins was born to Robert Joseph and Doris Elizabeth (Davis) Higgins in San Francisco, California on January 7, 1953; he served as a medic in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam Era; he married Connie J. Kellerstrass on August 25, 1976; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins retired from Road Sprinkler Fitters Local Union 669 after 30 years of service in 2009; he took pride in working for his union in many capacities and especially enjoyed his time working as an organizer; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins volunteered for the Heart of Illinois United Way and the NALC food drive; he also served as a blood donor and volunteer for the American Red Cross; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins was known as a self-described free spirit; he loved music; he unconditionally loved his family; his strength will continue to inspire and comfort those that knew and loved him; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Melvin F. Gillard; and his faithful friends, Duchess, Sparky, and Jaxon; and

WHEREAS, Dave Higgins is survived by his wife; his daughters, Kelli (Michael) Zurek and Kori (Kevin) O'Connor; his grandchildren, Amelia and Isla Zurek and Raina, Meleah, and Bryson Paul; his brother, Ricky (Debbie) Higgins; his sister, Bobbie Polite; his bonus mom and best buddy, Shirley Kellerstrass; his numerous nieces and nephews; his extended family members and friends; and his faithful friend, Charlie; 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 David Ernest "Dave" Higgins 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 Dave Higgins as an expression of our deepest sympathy.