SR0927 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0927 LRB103 40294 LAW 72358 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Wilber C. "Bud" Hodges Jr. of Coal Valley, who passed away on April 6, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges was born to Anna Mae (Bartels) and Wilber C. Hodges Sr. in Kahoka, Missouri on November 1, 1942; he graduated from Kahoka High School in 1960; he then enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Epperson until he was honorably discharged in 1963; he married Valerie Niclas in Coal Valley on December 10, 1983, and they resided in Coal Valley for the next 40 years and wintered in Florida for many years; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges spent his career in the engineering field, working as a journeyman tool and die maker and building prototypes for John Deere and other manufacturing companies; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges was a proud member of the Milan American Legion and an aviation enthusiast, flying planes for over 30 years; he loved gas engines and completing projects with his friends; he also enjoyed fishing; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges was known for never sitting still and his ability to fix anything; he will be remembered for his fervent patriotism and his willingness to help others; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges was preceded in death by his parents; and

WHEREAS, Bud Hodges is survived by his wife of 40 years, Valerie; their dog, Chester; his sister, Karen (Gary) Diehl; his nephews, Damon and Colin, and their families; and his sister-in-law, Marcia Gallagher; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Wilber C. "Bud" Hodges Jr. 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 Bud Hodges as an expression of our deepest sympathy.