Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer Passes Away at 51

Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer passed away Sunday night, according to an announcement from his family. Deer represented the county’s second district. He was 51. The family said in a statement, “Dr. Deer’s passionate lifelong dedication made him a tireless servant to the community in areas of healthcare, education, economic development, employment and training, re-entry, and affordable housing.” They added, “Dr. Deer’s greatest joy and pride were his family. He cherished his roles as husband to his high school sweetheart Barbara Deer and father to his twin sons Kaleb and Kanaan and daughter Trinity.” The cause of death is not known at this time, though the family said it would provide more details soon.& Deer, a 2020 Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree, assumed office in July 2017. His term was set to conclude in December 2026. Last year, Commissioner Deer underwent a successful double lung transplant at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.& & On Monday, various Illinois dignitaries paid tribute to his life and legacy, which was distinguished by a commitment to service.& & “Illinois has lost a true champion with the passing of my dear friend, Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer,” stated Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Dennis was the epitome...