During a recent meeting, members of the Cook County Board gathered to honor the late Dennis Dear, a beloved Commissioner of the 2nd District, who passed away earlier this year. The atmosphere was marked by a profound sense of loss as colleagues reflected on Dear's kindness and the impact he had on the board and the community.

One board member shared a personal memory, recalling how Dear reached out during a time of illness, highlighting the warmth and compassion that characterized his interactions. This sentiment was echoed by others, who emphasized that despite occasional disagreements, the board functioned as a family, and the loss of Dear felt deeply personal.

Vice Chairman expressed condolences to Dear's family, including his wife Barbara and their three children, Caleb, Canaan, and Trinity, as well as his brothers. The board members collectively extended their thoughts and prayers to the Dear family and others affected by this loss, underscoring the legacy of love and support that Dear fostered within the community.