SR0591 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0591 LRB102 21036 LAW 29971 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Paul Francis Schafer of Springfield, who passed away on September 5, 2021; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 3, 1962; he was the son of Donald and Margaret Madigan Schafer; he graduated from Central Catholic High School; he earned his bachelor's degree in Accounting from Illinois State University, where he dabbled in college football; he married Marie K. "Katie" Kerner in Bloomington on June 15, 1984; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer was a certified public accountant (CPA) and a co-founding partner of Eck, Schafer & Punke, LLP; he was known for always betting on himself, believing in his abilities, and trusting his partners; and

WHEREAS, Alongside his wife Katie, Paul Schafer co-founded The Fat Ass 5K & Street Party for Charity, an idea that was borne out of a resolve to contribute following his sister Mary's diagnosis of multiple sclerosis; through their charity, over $1.5 million has been donated in Mary's honor and memory since 2008; his most trusted friends and family will carry on his legacy; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church; he was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan, sneaking into radio booths, serving as a peanut vendor for one day at Wrigley Stadium, and witnessing the Cubs' Game 7 World Series victory with his son Patrick; he was a scorned Detroit Lions fan; he enjoyed sharing adventures with his wife as they took turns surprising each other with vacation destinations; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer was known for his legendary kindness, compassion, humor, bravery, and perseverance; he was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a loyal friend; he enjoyed thoroughly embarrassing his family, especially his children, while also motivating, challenging, and encouraging them every day; he led by example, especially through his last days; he will be dearly missed; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary; and his brother-in-law, Doug; and

WHEREAS, Paul Schafer is survived by his wife, Katie Schafer; his children, Christopher (Ashley) Schafer, Patrick (Kaitlin) Schafer, Daniel Schafer (Emily Ackerman), and Molly Schafer; his grandchildren, Louise "Lou", Max, and Frankie Schafer; his sister, Kathy (Doug) Thomas; his brothers, Gerald (Brenda) Schafer and Tim Schafer; his uncle, Butch Schafer; and his several nieces, nephews, and cousins; 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 Paul Francis Schafer 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 Paul Schafer as an expression of our deepest sympathy.