SR1406 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1406 LRB099 16797 MST 41144 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of William J. "Willie" Roth of Joliet, who passed away on December 28, 2015 at the age of 91; and

WHEREAS, William Roth was born to German and Austrian immigrants, William and Stella (Pacen) Roth; he grew up in Joliet and excelled in football and basketball at Joliet Township High School and Joliet Junior College, before enlisting in the United States Army Air Force; he served as a Lieutenant during World War II, flying 25 bombing missions over enemy territory; after returning from the war, he earned his business degree at Northwestern University, while playing for the Wildcats basketball team; and

WHEREAS, For decades, William Roth was an esteemed banker, businessman, and financial consultant in the greater Chicagoland area, including over 30 years at Bill Jacobs Chevrolet; and

WHEREAS, William Roth was active in many civic organizations, including serving as President of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce; he and his wife traveled the world and he was an excellent tennis player and an avid golfer; he was a vital member of Saint Raymond Nonnatus Parish and a devoted supporter of Joliet Catholic Academy; and

WHEREAS, William Roth was the loving husband of 65 years to Irene "Murph" (nee Murphy); the beloved father of 6 sons, William (Bonnie), Michael (Julie), Thomas (Sue), James (Luanne), Robert (Kim), and John (Kim); the adored grandfather of 22; the great-grandfather of 5; and the brother to Jean (Ted) Smith; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of William J. "Willie" Roth, 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 William Roth as an expression of our deepest sympathy.