SR0370 96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0370 LRB096 13572 GRL 28331 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of James F. Markelz of Joliet, who passed away on July 15, 2009; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz was born on January 29, 1933; he was the third son of Anton J. and Angela B. Markelz; he married Marge Hammel in 1955; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz was a lifelong resident of Joliet; he was a 1947 graduate of St. Raymond Grade School and a 1951 graduate of Joliet Township High School; he attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison before serving his country in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954, working as a chaplain's assistant in Germany during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz worked for his father at The Book Shop; he later served as President of Markelz Office Products until his retirement in 1995; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz was an active leader in his community, most notably with his work for the Joliet Area Community Hospice, St. Paul the Apostle Parish and School, Joliet Catholic High School, and St. Francis Academy; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz enjoyed music, having played the saxophone in college and later the organ, and was an active member of the choir at St. Paul's for over 30 years; after his retirement, he composed dozens of wonderful songs for children and for reflection; several of his songs have been produced and distributed for so many to enjoy; he was also an avid Chicago Blackhawks fan; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Frederick "Jack" Markelz; and his granddaughter, Madeline Markelz; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz is survived by his wife, Marge; his children, Janet Markelz, Greg (Tami) Markelz, Nancy (Steve) Gatens, Carl Markelz, O.Carm, Paul Markelz, and Aimee (Dave) Tracy; his grandchildren, Molly O'Sullivan, Anthony (Jessica) and Lauren Markelz, Sarah and Marty Gatens, Christopher and Alexander Markelz, and Kathryn and Mary Margaret Tracy; his brother, Dr. Robert (Evelyn) Markelz; his sister, Jean (Bill) Mammosser; and his many nieces and nephews; and

WHEREAS, James Markelz will be remembered by all who knew and loved him as a devoted husband and dedicated father and grandfather, who tirelessly helped anyone in need with their business or personal ventures; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-SIXTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn, along with his family and friends, the passing of James F. Markelz; and be it further

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