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Type:
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Resolution
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Status:
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Adopted
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Intro date:
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2/1/2023
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Current Controlling Legislative Body:
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Title:
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Tribute to late Gilbert Martinez, Jr.
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Attachments:
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1. R2023-215.pdf
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Chicago City Council
January 18, 2023
RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF GILBERT 'GIL' MARTINEZ, JR.
WHEREAS, It is with great sadness and a heavy heart to share the passing of Gilbert Martinez, Jr. (Gil). A native New Yorker from Brooklyn with a love for Chicago so strong that he lived each day-including his last—in service ofthis City and the people who call it home; and
WHEREAS, He was a father, relative, friend, mentor, and teammate, whose loss continues to be greatly felt by those who had the honor of knowing him and the privilege of being loved by him. He had a larger-than-life presence that quickly captivated those around him with his charm, positivity, contagious laughter, and unconditional love for his people; and
WHEREAS, Gil's absence will continue to be immensely felt throughout the 36th Ward and by Team Villegas. His passing has caused many to reckon with life's fragility, while similarly, reminding us all of the importance of honoring those we care for by sharing our memories and stories of them; and
WHEREAS, The following clauses are shared by Team Villegas; and
WHEREAS, "Gilbert Martinez served in government for decades but never forgot the importance of ensuring that the residents he represented were always at the forefront. A loyal, faithful, positive and supportive friend who always wanted others to succeed and would always offer to assist those seeking a better life" said by the man Gil was proud to have known, supported, and loved since he was a boy, Alderman Villegas; and
WHEREAS, "Gil will never be forgotten, and his smile, sense of humor and willingness to help always brightened every room he entered. He was a dear colleague, friend and mentor who taught all of us to never give up and always show up ready to face any challenge on our path. He always made sure we ate, shared a compliment when needed, listened patiently and gave advice that was truly meaningful. Gil was loved dearly and loved all of us even more. Gil was a mentor, friend and outreach expert. Life will never be the same without him. He was someone who gave the best of himself at all times and brought out the best of us" said by the person Gil loved to spend his time most with, both in and outside of the office, his best friend and sunshine, Vannessa; and
WHEREAS, "While Gil was a consummate professional, he carried a lightheartedness that translated into playful banter, resulting in sincere conversations with constituents and colleagues alike" said by a friend Gil was proud of and would love to emphasize his name with joy and a subtle chuckle each time he said it, Sergio; and
WHEREAS, "Gil was lovingly called Gil Cheese. He was truly a great man and a treasured friend. He will be remembered for his love of family and home cooked meals, his smile, his jokes, his positive outlook, & his words of encouragement and support. Our family loved him very much and were blessed to have him in our lives" said by his favorite break partner and close friend, Kim; and
1
Chicago City Council
January 18, 2023
WHEREAS, On December 28, 2022, we lost a good friend that was part of the 36 ward team. He made us laugh all the time and was a very hard worker, Gilbert Martinez, Jr. He will always be remembered in our hearts and he will be missed," said by his ward adventure partner and Boricua brother, Luis; and
WHEREAS, "His team loved Gil very much. He considered the team his second family, and the team felt the same way about him. He will be dearly missed, but he left us many lovely memories and fun times. He was a proud Puerto Rican man" said by his desk buddy and beloved friend, Alba; and
WHEREAS, "Gil M's best friend, Reni, greeted him every morning by running straight to his desk with the confidence that he would get cuddles and treats in return. Their bond was special and it gave Gil M energy to keep going. "Reni, is my buddy," said Gil M, as he admitted that he was his favorite," said by his good friend and admired Jefa, Maggs; and
WHEREAS, "He was a great man who knew the best food in town, and always found a good spot for lunches," said by Gil's favorite intern and lunch buddy, Wilfredo; and
WHEREAS, "Gil Martinez was a beacon of light in the community, he worked to foster meaningful relationships with everyone around him" said by his newest friend, Gianna; and
WHEREAS, "I will miss the way he really loved his people because it was real. His love might have been tough at first, but once he loved you, it was unconditional. However, he put everyone at some point or another on a probationary period and closely assessed whether they would be welcomed into his second family, Team Villegas. This is another testament to his loyal and protective nature, and he was most loyal and protective of the Alderman. He loved to talk with glowing eyes and pride in his voice of how he had known the Alderman since he was a little boy because he was good friends with his father. He felt it was his responsibility to watch after the Alderman and loved supporting him. Once you had Gil's love, you were in. I will never forget how he was one ofthe first people on the team to give me a big hug, and in that moment I knew I had passed" said by his friend, Ashley, who promises to live up to impressive titles he proudly introduced me as, and also, take time to truly rest; and
WHEREAS, Team Villegas dedicates their work and this year in his honor. There will not be a day Gil is not greatly missed. Most importantly, Team Villegas sends their deepest condolences to those he loved more than anything in this world, his children—Gilbert Martinez, III, Anthony Martinez, Mia Gordils, and Noel Martinez; and, now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and Members ofthe City Council ofthe City of Chicago gathered here on this 18th Day of January 2023, do hereby express our sorrow with the passing of Gilbert Martinez, Jr. and extend our sincere condolences to the countless lives he impacted, and honor the legacy he established in the City of Chicago.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Gilbert Martinez, Jr.'s family as a symbol of gratitude for his impact and service. A .
Gilbert Villegas Alderman, 36th Ward
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