In Memory of Aaron Shepley

Floor Speech

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Mr. CASTEN of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Aaron Shepley. The State of Illinois has lost one of its most capable and dedicated public servants with the tragic death of Crystal Lake's longtime Mayor. In his long service to the community, as both mayor and city council member, a founding member of the drumline group the Crystal Lake Strikers, and dedicated husband and father, Aaron led with quiet humility, approachability, and selflessness.

A resident of Crystal Lake since 1972, Aaron was passionate and unwavering in his advocacy for the city, and eager to work in a unifying and positive manner to assist its residents. In a time when politics more often divides us, Aaron was most professionally proud of the congenial relationships among his fellow council members and the work of the Crystal Lake city staff. He leaves a beautiful legacy of highly competent and unselfish public service that should inspire us all.

In addition to his civic work, Aaron was also a drummer dedicated to supporting aspiring musicians. After learning to play drums for his 40th birthday, Aaron and two friends started Strikers, a drum line for adult percussionists. In the decade since their founding, the Strikers have gained local and national notoriety, and created several educational programs to support the performing arts in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Aaron was the driving force behind the Strikers' Evening of Percussion fundraising event, and in the 11 years of awarding scholarships, the Strikers have provided over $50,000 to local students.

Aaron Shepley was a class act, and I am grateful to have known and learned from him. I extend my deepest sympathy to Aaron's wife Regan and their daughters Chase and Madison, and the people of Crystal Lake, for this tremendous loss.

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