MEMORIAL-RONALD J. WARD

104th Regular Session Introduced by Steve McClure

Memorializes Ronald J. Ward and expresses the Illinois Senate’s condolences, recognizing his life, service, and family.

Resolution Adopted

Summary of SR0864 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and Intent

SR0864 is a Senate Resolution memorializing and extending condolences for the life and service of Ronald J. Ward of Chatham, Illinois, who passed away on January 31, 2026.

The resolution serves as an expression of respect from the Illinois Senate and a formal acknowledgment of Ward’s life, character, and contributions.

Key Provisions and Content

Proclamation of mourning: The resolution states that the members of the Illinois Senate are saddened by Ward’s death.

Biographical sketch: It provides background information, including Ward’s birth (June 22, 1950, in Jacksonville), service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, marriage to Katherine M. "Kitty" Moran Koeppel (August 1, 1992), and retirement as a security therapy aide from the Illinois Department of Human Services after 20 years of state service.

Personal interests: Mentions Ward’s enjoyments (antique guns, daggers, cars, ham radio) and his devotion to his family.

Survivors: Identifies his wife, his son Daniel Koeppel, his daughters Elizabeth Koeppel and Katherine Koeppel, his grandchildren Parker Loveless and Hannah Loveless, and their dog Luna.

Expression of sympathy: The resolution concludes with an official expression of deepest sympathy to Ward’s family, friends, and loved ones.

Formal disposition: A suitable copy of the resolution will be presented to Ward’s family as an expression of condolences.

Who/What Is Affected

Individuals affected: Ronald J. Ward and his immediate family (wife, children, grandchildren, and their household).

Institutional impact: The Illinois Senate (as a body) issues a memorial resolution, providing ceremonial recognition and formal sympathy on behalf of the Senate.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Type of measure: Senate Resolution (SR), a ceremonial and commemorative measure, not a law or budgetary bill.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsored by Senator Steve McClure.

Effect: The resolution does not create policy changes or fiscal obligations; it serves to honor and memorialize an individual and to express condolences.

Notable Details

The resolution includes a concise biographical summary and personal details to humanize the tribute.

It follows standard practice for memorial resolutions by the Illinois Senate, recognizing public service and personal character.

If you’d like, I can compare SR0864 to other Illinois memorial resolutions or provide a brief overview of how such resolutions function within the legislative process.