SR0982 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Gary Hembrough of Champaign, who passed away on October 9, 2012; and

WHEREAS, Gary Hembrough was born on July 29, 1939, in Roodhouse to Kenneth L. and Martha Ann Vinyard Hembrough; he graduated from Roodhouse High school, where he lettered all 4 years in football, basketball, and track; he was offered full scholarships in football and vocal music to the University of Illinois, where he played football from 1957-1962, played in the 1962 Rose Bowl, and later coached freshmen football; he was president of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity; he married Georgine Ann Tortorella on July 20, 1974, in Lincolnwood; and

WHEREAS, Gary Hembrough took his first teaching and coaching positions at Jefferson Junior High School; he moved on to Centennial High School to teach and coach and was the school's head football coach for 11 years; he coached Centennial to its first playoff berth in 1984; he retired from Unit 4 schools in 1994; and

WHEREAS, Upon retirement, Gary Hembrough started G & H Computing Services; his interest and talent for cooking evolved into preparing foods for friends, fans at the University of Illinois football games, and visitors at the Champaign County Fair; he started Coach's Cooking Team, where he catered weddings, ball games, gatherings, university events, school functions, businesses, and private affairs; he attended many food competitions and was a frequent winner; and

WHEREAS, Gary Hembrough's interests were extensive and varied; he had his Chevrolet van conversion featured in Hot Rod Magazine; he enjoyed ham radio, downhill skiing, golf, bass tournaments, photography, the banjo, bluegrass music, and magic tricks; he encouraged his students to excel in their passions and become lifelong learners; he was respected as a coach, teacher, leader, and a person; and

WHEREAS, Gary Hembrough was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth L. and Martha Ann Vinyard Hembrough; and an infant brother; and

WHEREAS, Gary Hembrough is survived by his wife, Georgine; his sister, Janet Long; his niece, Missy (Gregg Burrus); his great-nieces Chloe and Claire; and several cousins; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Gary Hembrough, and we 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 Gary Hembrough as an expression of our deepest sympathy.