HR0584 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0584 LRB099 12747 GRL 36542 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Paul Penn, who passed away on May 7, 2015; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn was born on April 2, 1925; he was a true community leader for working people and a generous soul who gave much to all of McLean County; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn was first elected business manager of Laborers Local 362 in 1958; he continued to serve and guide the local union for the rest of his life; from this position, he was instrumental in guiding the Laborers to achieve better conditions and establish a union hiring hall, a pension plan, a health and welfare plan, and training programs; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn served his country during World War II, serving with the United States Army's famed "Red Ball Express" in the European Theater, landing in France just a few days after D-Day; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn believed in giving back to the community; he organized Laborers, other union crafts, and union contractors to share their skills through donated labor to enhance McLean County's human services and public monuments; through these donated labor efforts, he helped complete the ball fields at O'Neil Park in Bloomington, the Chicago & Alton Railroad monument in Miller Park, the World War II Monument at McLean County's Old Courthouse, the Baby Fold renovation at the old Soldiers' and Sailors' Home in Normal, the Women in The Trades program at the Easter Seals Camp, and numerous other varied projects to aid social service and community agencies; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn used his position as Laborers' business manager to create job opportunities and openings for McLean County workers, regardless of background, race, color, creed, or gender; and

WHEREAS, Paul Penn left a legacy of community service, responsible union leadership, and concern for all; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we, along with his family and friends, mourn the passing of Paul Penn; and be it further

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