IL SR1343

Stephen "Steve" Riess of Hawthorn Woods passed away on November 8, 2022; he was born January 5, 1953, in Evanston to Hans and Gladys Ross Riess.

Served as a trustee of Hawthorn Woods Village for over 23 years, beginning May 10, 1999, and was reelected for five additional terms.

Led environmental initiatives including securing seven Tree City Awards from the National Arbor Day Foundation, creating a Heritage Tree Designation, updating the village Tree Ordinance, and distributing over 2,000 saplings through annual Arbor Day observances in the last seven years.

Served on multiple village committees including the Finance Committee (appointed January 13, 2009) and Environmental/Sustainability Committee (since October 21, 1999), and worked with District 95 on the Alternative Employment Committee mentoring high school students.

Survived by his wife MaryAnn, daughters Sarah and Rachel, grandson Gabriel, and brother Martin; the Illinois Senate extends condolences to his family and friends.