SR0313 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0313 LRB102 18575 LAW 26871 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Officer Christopher "Chris" Oberheim of Monticello, who passed away on May 19, 2021; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim was born in Decatur on October 31, 1976; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim began his career in law enforcement at the Decatur Police Department in 2000, where he quickly became a respected officer who led by quiet example and maintained a sense of humility even when receiving recognition for his heroic actions; he always looked forward to playing in the annual PBPA State Softball Tournament and making memories with his fellow officers, whose friendships he treasured; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim transferred to the Champaign Police Department in 2008, where he continued to protect and serve his community; during his tenure, he received two Medals of Valor for his courageous acts of selfless bravery; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim dedicated a great deal of his time off-duty to coaching several successful girls' softball teams; his influence on the field was felt by many who loved and respected him; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim was not only a police officer but also a son, brother, husband, father, beloved coach, trusted friend, and respected leader; he valued his family as his first priority, and his four daughters were his absolute pride and joy; he will be remembered for being a devoted public servant, a family tradition further continued by his younger brother and his cousin who both serve as Decatur Police officers; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim was preceded in death by his sister, LeighAnn, and his grandfather, Neil Ganley; and

WHEREAS, Officer Oberheim is survived by his wife, Amber; his daughters, Hannah, Avery, Addison, and Aubree; his parents, Ted and Mary Ann Oberheim; his siblings, Greg (Michelle), Amy, Matt (Jennifer), Joe (Chelsea), and Sarah (Jason); his in-laws; and his nieces and nephews; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Officer Christopher "Chris" Oberheim and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

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