IL SR1420

William H. Luking passed away on June 12, 2014; he was born August 7, 1947 in Connersville, Indiana, graduated cum laude from the University of Notre Dame in 1969, and earned his law degree from Northwestern University Law School in 1972.

Served as legal advocate for the City of Chicago beginning in 1986 under Mayor Harold Washington and continuing under Mayors Richard M. Daley and Rahm Emanuel for nearly 30 years.

Represented Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Park District, Chicago Transit Authority, City Colleges of Chicago, and the Chicago Botanic Garden on matters involving taxation, economic development, public pensions, and mass transit.

Was instrumental in passage of significant legislation including construction of U.S. Cellular Field (formerly Comiskey Park), expansion of Soldier Field, Midway Airport privatization, and pension system reforms.

Performed pro bono legal work for multiple community organizations including the Chicago Christian Industrial League, Tuesday's Child, and the Chicago Children's Advocacy Center.