I was saddened to learn about the recent death of Larry Christmas. I really came to know Larry when he served as the Oak Park village president from 1993 to 1997 and I was the Oak Park village attorney.
There has never been an easy time to be the Oak Park village president and the 1993 to 1997 term was no exception. I was there through it all and can attest to the fact that compliance with the law, fairness, responsibility and public benefit were at the heart of every decision Larry made on behalf of the village.
I can also attest to the fact that when he encountered controversy, misconduct or wrongdoing, he had the moral and ethical underpinnings and courage to confront them and see them through, regardless of the personal cost to himself.
In spite of these extraordinary qualities, I think it was Larry’s gentleness and kindness that most defined him. Larry Christmas was at all times a gentleman, and an Oak Parker to his core. He has now joined the growing list of Oak Parkers who are leaving us, and who have played a significant role in making Oak Park the special community it is today.
Remember Larry, and all those who have gone before him, who have done so much to give us the Oak Park we have today.
And send them your thanks.
Ray Heise
Retired Oak Park village attorney
