RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard has been called to eternal life by the wisdom of God at the age of 83; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago City Council has been informed of his passing by Alderman Edward M. Burke; and
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard was a Chicago broadcasting legend and the loving husband for 58 years of the late Sheila, nee Finn; and
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard was the much-adored father of Kip, Kerry, Kolin, Kent, Kyle and Kelly to whom he imparted many of the Fine and noble qualities that he possessed in abundance; and
WHEREAS, A native of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, Roy Leonard was raised in Massachusetts where he began his radio career; and
WHEREAS, After more than a decade on Boston, radio, Roy Leonard joined WGN in 1967 where he became a staple on Chicago's airwaves and earned his place as a household name; and
WHEREAS, Known for his easy-going style and engaging interviews, Roy Leonard strongly emphasized the arts and entertainment during his 31-year tenure as the widely celebrated host of WGN's midday radio show; and
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard interviewed a wide range of celebrities, including Clint Eastwood, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine and Jimmy Stewart; and
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard also appeared on WGN-TV news, Christmas specials and "Family Classics" after the death of longtime host Frazier Thomas in 1985; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his career, Roy Leonard was an avid supporter of theater groups, big and small; and
WHEREAS, After raising their family in Kenilworth, where they often entertained celebrity dinner guests, the Leonards moved in retirement to Evanston; and
WHEREAS, The hard work, sacrifice and dedication of Roy Leonard serve as an example to all; and
WHEREAS, His love of life and ability to live it to the fullest endeared Roy Leonard to his family members, friends and all who knew him, and enabled him to enrich their lives in ways they will never forget; and
WHEREAS, Roy Leonard was an individual of great integrity and accomplishment who will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his many relatives, friends and admirers; and
WHEREAS, To his beloved family, Roy Leonard imparts a legacy of faithfulness, service and dignity; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and the members of the Chicago City Council, assembled this eighth day of October, 2014, do hereby commemorate Roy Leonard Roy Leonard for his grace-filled life and do hereby express our condolences to his family; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Roy Leonard.
Alderman - 14th Ward