Leon Bourassa
1798-1863
First Landowner
A French-Native American trader, Leon Bourassa was granted 160 acres along the Des Plaines River north of what is now Roosevelt Road by President Martin Van Buren. By this time, the Native Americans had been forcibly removed to the west of the Mississippi River. The Potawatomi woman Mnetoqua, who is also known as Marguerite or Margaret, stayed to tend to the ancestral lands. When Leon and Mnetoqua married they established their home on the land which is now part of Forest Home Cemetery.
1798-1863
First Landowner
A French-Native American trader, Leon Bourassa was granted 160 acres along the Des Plaines River north of what is now Roosevelt Road by President Martin Van Buren. By this time, the Native Americans had been forcibly removed to the west of the Mississippi River. The Potawatomi woman Mnetoqua, who is also known as Marguerite or Margaret, stayed to tend to the ancestral lands. When Leon and Mnetoqua married they established their home on the land which is now part of Forest Home Cemetery.
Ferdinand Haase
1826 - 1872
Early Settler
In 1851, he purchased 40 acres along the Des Plaines River from Leon Bourassa for farming and raising cattle. He expanded this property, built a 30-room mansion, and turned it into a park. Later, he sold parcels of this land to Concordia and Waldheim and then started his own Forest Home Cemetery.
1826 - 1872
Early Settler
In 1851, he purchased 40 acres along the Des Plaines River from Leon Bourassa for farming and raising cattle. He expanded this property, built a 30-room mansion, and turned it into a park. Later, he sold parcels of this land to Concordia and Waldheim and then started his own Forest Home Cemetery.
Wilbert Haase
1892 - 1959
Industrialist
In 1913, he became the manager of the L.G. Haase Co., which his uncle Leo had established to make concrete products for cemeteries. In 1919, he purchased the firm. He developed and patented the Wilbert Vault and issued franchises to manufacture and sell these vault boxes. The American Wilbert Vault Corp. of Forest Park is now known throughout the nation.
1892 - 1959
Industrialist
In 1913, he became the manager of the L.G. Haase Co., which his uncle Leo had established to make concrete products for cemeteries. In 1919, he purchased the firm. He developed and patented the Wilbert Vault and issued franchises to manufacture and sell these vault boxes. The American Wilbert Vault Corp. of Forest Park is now known throughout the nation.
Lorentz F. Kaercher
1915 - 1991
Park Commissioner, Health Board Member
Robert Mohr Haeger was born in Forest Park on July 23, 1922. He spent much of his youth in La Grange and graduated from Lyons Township High School. Working for his father at Abell-Howe Company brought him back to Forest Park, where he resided for over 25 years. In 1946, while working for American Torpedo at the Naval Ordnance plant, Bob met his wife, Emilie “Lee” Kaercher. Bob, a first cousin of Mayor and Senator Howard Mohr, was very involved in everything from politics to the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, where he served as executive director for several years. After being publisher of the Forest Park Review from 1972 to 1986 and editor for most of those years, Haeger sold the paper and started Forest Graphics. He served as Fire and Police Commissioner for a number of years, ran for mayor in 1979, was MC for many events, and was chosen Citizen of the Year in 1992. Bob died on March 19, 1992, at his home in Forest Park.
1915 - 1991
Park Commissioner, Health Board Member
Robert Mohr Haeger was born in Forest Park on July 23, 1922. He spent much of his youth in La Grange and graduated from Lyons Township High School. Working for his father at Abell-Howe Company brought him back to Forest Park, where he resided for over 25 years. In 1946, while working for American Torpedo at the Naval Ordnance plant, Bob met his wife, Emilie “Lee” Kaercher. Bob, a first cousin of Mayor and Senator Howard Mohr, was very involved in everything from politics to the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, where he served as executive director for several years. After being publisher of the Forest Park Review from 1972 to 1986 and editor for most of those years, Haeger sold the paper and started Forest Graphics. He served as Fire and Police Commissioner for a number of years, ran for mayor in 1979, was MC for many events, and was chosen Citizen of the Year in 1992. Bob died on March 19, 1992, at his home in Forest Park.
Robert Mohr Haeger
1922 - 1992
Citizen of the Year • Police & Fire Commissioner • Editor/Publisher, Forest Park Review • Master of Ceremonies
Robert Mohr Haeger was born in Forest Park on July 23, 1922. He spent much of his youth in La Grange and graduated from Lyons Township High School. Working for his father at Abell-Howe Company brought him back to Forest Park, where he resided for over 25 years. Bob, a first cousin of Mayor and Senator Howard Mohr, was very involved in everything from politics to the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, where he served as executive director for several years. After being publisher of the Forest Park Review from 1972 to 1986 and editor for most of those years, Haeger sold the paper and started Forest Graphics. He served as Fire and Police Commissioner for a number of years, ran for mayor in 1979, was MC for many events, and was chosen Citizen of the Year in 1992. Bob died on March 19, 1992, at his home in Forest Park.
1922 - 1992
Citizen of the Year • Police & Fire Commissioner • Editor/Publisher, Forest Park Review • Master of Ceremonies
Robert Mohr Haeger was born in Forest Park on July 23, 1922. He spent much of his youth in La Grange and graduated from Lyons Township High School. Working for his father at Abell-Howe Company brought him back to Forest Park, where he resided for over 25 years. Bob, a first cousin of Mayor and Senator Howard Mohr, was very involved in everything from politics to the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce, where he served as executive director for several years. After being publisher of the Forest Park Review from 1972 to 1986 and editor for most of those years, Haeger sold the paper and started Forest Graphics. He served as Fire and Police Commissioner for a number of years, ran for mayor in 1979, was MC for many events, and was chosen Citizen of the Year in 1992. Bob died on March 19, 1992, at his home in Forest Park.
Henry J. Mohr
1869 - 1957
Businessman, Citizen Extraordinary
Established H. J. Mohr & Sons Co., still an outstanding firm. Elected President of Harlem (now Forest Park) for three terms, President of Forest Park for four terms, and served as Mayor for one term, serving a total of 13 years.
1869 - 1957
Businessman, Citizen Extraordinary
Established H. J. Mohr & Sons Co., still an outstanding firm. Elected President of Harlem (now Forest Park) for three terms, President of Forest Park for four terms, and served as Mayor for one term, serving a total of 13 years.
Howard R. Mohr
1921 - 1977
Businessman • Mayor • State Senator • Naval Officer
Co-founder of Mohr Oil. Naval Officer in WWII. Elected Mayor in 1963 and again in 1971 and 1975. In 1967, elected State Senator. He served Forest Park very ably in both offices until his death in 1977.
1921 - 1977
Businessman • Mayor • State Senator • Naval Officer
Co-founder of Mohr Oil. Naval Officer in WWII. Elected Mayor in 1963 and again in 1971 and 1975. In 1967, elected State Senator. He served Forest Park very ably in both offices until his death in 1977.
Roy H. Mohr
1896 - 1974
Banker • Businessman • Assessor
Assistant Cashier at A. Roos & Sons Bank. Co-founder of Mohr Oil. Best remembered as Township Assessor and for his many generous community activities
1896 - 1974
Banker • Businessman • Assessor
Assistant Cashier at A. Roos & Sons Bank. Co-founder of Mohr Oil. Best remembered as Township Assessor and for his many generous community activities
Frederick T. Rall Jr.
1928 -
Aeronautical Engineer
Born and raised in Forest Park, Frederic T. Rall Jr. graduated from St. John, Proviso High School, M.I.T., and the California Institute of Technology. Joining the U.S. Air Force in 1953, he, due to his outstanding technological leadership, became the Air Force’s Chief Engineer and was presented with the highest rank award for Senior Executive Service by President Ronald Reagan.
1928 -
Aeronautical Engineer
Born and raised in Forest Park, Frederic T. Rall Jr. graduated from St. John, Proviso High School, M.I.T., and the California Institute of Technology. Joining the U.S. Air Force in 1953, he, due to his outstanding technological leadership, became the Air Force’s Chief Engineer and was presented with the highest rank award for Senior Executive Service by President Ronald Reagan.
Fred Marunde
1935 -
Singer, Veteran, Civic Leader, Village Official
Fred Marunde was born in eastern Germany and fled to West Germany with his family in 1945. In 1952, they were admitted into the U.S. and settled in Forest Park. He soon joined the Young People's Choir and later the Harlem Male Chorus. In 1956, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served honorably and became a U.S. citizen. Upon returning to Forest Park, he married Roberta and resumed his interest in singing and various civic activities. He served on the School Advisory Committee, Oktoberfest, Altenheim Board, and as Village Commissioner and Mayor. He was awarded the German Cross by the Federal Republic of Germany for his endeavors to strengthen German-American friendship.
1935 -
Singer, Veteran, Civic Leader, Village Official
Fred Marunde was born in eastern Germany and fled to West Germany with his family in 1945. In 1952, they were admitted into the U.S. and settled in Forest Park. He soon joined the Young People's Choir and later the Harlem Male Chorus. In 1956, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served honorably and became a U.S. citizen. Upon returning to Forest Park, he married Roberta and resumed his interest in singing and various civic activities. He served on the School Advisory Committee, Oktoberfest, Altenheim Board, and as Village Commissioner and Mayor. He was awarded the German Cross by the Federal Republic of Germany for his endeavors to strengthen German-American friendship.
Dr. Phyllis Orland
1919-2009
Pediatrician
Dr. Phyllis Orland was a highly respected pediatrician and advocate for the polio vaccine in Forest Park and Chicago. She attended the University of Illinois at a time when women comprised only a small percentage of the class. She went on to become a published author and speaker on children's health. She was recognized for her contributions in the 1972-1973 edition of "Who's Who of American Women.”
Dr. Frank J. Orland
1917-2000
Dentist • Founder of the Historical Society of Forest Park
Frank Orland, an eminent microbiologist and Professor Emeritus at the University of Chicago, lived in Forest Park almost all his life. He was the Founding President of the Historical Society of Forest Park in 1976 and was also Chairman of the 1984 Centenary Executive Committee. Frank received the Community Service Award for 1984 for outstanding community service to Forest Park, presented by VFW Memorial Post #7181. He was presented with the "Citizen of the Year" award in 1989 by the Fraternal Order of Police and received the Cook County Sheriff's Medal of Honor Award for Spirit of Volunteerism in 1993. Dr. Orland has been the editor of the *Chronicles of Forest Park* (1976–2000) and organized Forest Park cemetery walks beginning in 1976. Additionally, he was the Chairman of the 200th Commemoration of the Bill of Rights Ratification in 1994.
Professionally, Dr. Orland was editor of the *Journal of Dental Research* from 1958 to 1968 and served as the President of the International Association for Dental Research during 1971 and 1972. He was also President of the American Academy of the History of Dentistry (1976–77) and President of the Society of Medical History (1980–1981). Frank authored three major books and many scientific articles in the field of dentistry..
He originated the concept of the "Wall of Renown" in 1984 during the incorporation centenary of Forest Park, which he promulgated.
1919-2009
Pediatrician
Dr. Phyllis Orland was a highly respected pediatrician and advocate for the polio vaccine in Forest Park and Chicago. She attended the University of Illinois at a time when women comprised only a small percentage of the class. She went on to become a published author and speaker on children's health. She was recognized for her contributions in the 1972-1973 edition of "Who's Who of American Women.”
Dr. Frank J. Orland
1917-2000
Dentist • Founder of the Historical Society of Forest Park
Frank Orland, an eminent microbiologist and Professor Emeritus at the University of Chicago, lived in Forest Park almost all his life. He was the Founding President of the Historical Society of Forest Park in 1976 and was also Chairman of the 1984 Centenary Executive Committee. Frank received the Community Service Award for 1984 for outstanding community service to Forest Park, presented by VFW Memorial Post #7181. He was presented with the "Citizen of the Year" award in 1989 by the Fraternal Order of Police and received the Cook County Sheriff's Medal of Honor Award for Spirit of Volunteerism in 1993. Dr. Orland has been the editor of the *Chronicles of Forest Park* (1976–2000) and organized Forest Park cemetery walks beginning in 1976. Additionally, he was the Chairman of the 200th Commemoration of the Bill of Rights Ratification in 1994.
Professionally, Dr. Orland was editor of the *Journal of Dental Research* from 1958 to 1968 and served as the President of the International Association for Dental Research during 1971 and 1972. He was also President of the American Academy of the History of Dentistry (1976–77) and President of the Society of Medical History (1980–1981). Frank authored three major books and many scientific articles in the field of dentistry..
He originated the concept of the "Wall of Renown" in 1984 during the incorporation centenary of Forest Park, which he promulgated.
Mae M. Baldridge
1919 -2012
Nurse
A resident of Forest Park for 41 years, Mae Baldridge served the village in many ways. She was a member of the Board of Health for 19 years, a Girl Scout Brownie leader, and an active PTA officer and member. She played a significant role in recruiting nursing help for the village Red Cross Blood Program and the flu program. Additionally, she co-recruited and organized the village's polio vaccination program, Proviso Township rubella program, and Meals on Wheels. Mae personally solicited funds for cancer, heart, polio, and community fund drives. She assisted as a nurse in the Lions Glaucoma Program and, for many years, served as the school nurse for St. John, St. Bernardine, and Forest Park Public Schools.
1919 -2012
Nurse
A resident of Forest Park for 41 years, Mae Baldridge served the village in many ways. She was a member of the Board of Health for 19 years, a Girl Scout Brownie leader, and an active PTA officer and member. She played a significant role in recruiting nursing help for the village Red Cross Blood Program and the flu program. Additionally, she co-recruited and organized the village's polio vaccination program, Proviso Township rubella program, and Meals on Wheels. Mae personally solicited funds for cancer, heart, polio, and community fund drives. She assisted as a nurse in the Lions Glaucoma Program and, for many years, served as the school nurse for St. John, St. Bernardine, and Forest Park Public Schools.
Ray F. Block
1921 - 1994
Construction Engineer
Born and raised in Forest Park, Ray received a B.S. degree in Construction Engineering and worked as such for many years with the General Services Administration until retiring in 1975. He was an active member of many organizations at St. Bernardine's Church and served as an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve (Seabees). Ray was also a member of the American Legion Forest Park Post, serving as Commander of Post 1947-48. He co-chaired both the Forest Park Centennial (1956) and the Centenary Parade Committee (1984) and was a member of the Selective Service System Local Board, Village Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and the U.S. Constitution Bicentennial Committee.
1921 - 1994
Construction Engineer
Born and raised in Forest Park, Ray received a B.S. degree in Construction Engineering and worked as such for many years with the General Services Administration until retiring in 1975. He was an active member of many organizations at St. Bernardine's Church and served as an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve (Seabees). Ray was also a member of the American Legion Forest Park Post, serving as Commander of Post 1947-48. He co-chaired both the Forest Park Centennial (1956) and the Centenary Parade Committee (1984) and was a member of the Selective Service System Local Board, Village Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and the U.S. Constitution Bicentennial Committee.
Lorraine Popelka
1932-2007
Mayor
Lorraine, a dedicated lifelong resident, was the first woman Mayor of the Village of Forest Park, serving three terms (12 years). Prior to that, she served as Commissioner of Accounts and Finance for eight years. Lorraine Popelka's numerous community involvements included 35 years as Director of the Park District's "Learn to Swim" program, 12 years as a Chamber of Commerce Board Member, 25 years as a volunteer for the All School Picnic, 30 years as a volunteer for the Forest Park Invitational No Gloves National Tournament, and much more. She was an active member of the Plan Commission and was responsible for the addition of the Wm. R. McKenzie Annex to the Howard Mohr Community Center.
1932-2007
Mayor
Lorraine, a dedicated lifelong resident, was the first woman Mayor of the Village of Forest Park, serving three terms (12 years). Prior to that, she served as Commissioner of Accounts and Finance for eight years. Lorraine Popelka's numerous community involvements included 35 years as Director of the Park District's "Learn to Swim" program, 12 years as a Chamber of Commerce Board Member, 25 years as a volunteer for the All School Picnic, 30 years as a volunteer for the Forest Park Invitational No Gloves National Tournament, and much more. She was an active member of the Plan Commission and was responsible for the addition of the Wm. R. McKenzie Annex to the Howard Mohr Community Center.
Helen M. Imber
1898 - 1983
Teacher
Helen Imber dedicated her entire adult life to Forest Park—first as a teacher in Forest Park schools for forty-one years, and later as an outstanding benefactor to her adopted hometown. Although she moved to California after her retirement in 1963, she made a very substantial gift to the Forest Park Public Library and, upon her death, made the library the sole beneficiary of her entire estate.
1898 - 1983
Teacher
Helen Imber dedicated her entire adult life to Forest Park—first as a teacher in Forest Park schools for forty-one years, and later as an outstanding benefactor to her adopted hometown. Although she moved to California after her retirement in 1963, she made a very substantial gift to the Forest Park Public Library and, upon her death, made the library the sole beneficiary of her entire estate.
Emery Parichy
1899 - 1992
Businessman and Civic Leader
In addition to establishing and operating a successful roofing, shingle, and window company, Emery Parichy built an athletics stadium in Forest Park and organized the Forest Park Bloomer Girls Softball Team, which became known throughout the Midwest. He served as trustee on the school boards of both Forest Park and Proviso High School. He was also a member of the Library Board and was very active in the Kiwanis Club and the Chamber of Commerce.
1899 - 1992
Businessman and Civic Leader
In addition to establishing and operating a successful roofing, shingle, and window company, Emery Parichy built an athletics stadium in Forest Park and organized the Forest Park Bloomer Girls Softball Team, which became known throughout the Midwest. He served as trustee on the school boards of both Forest Park and Proviso High School. He was also a member of the Library Board and was very active in the Kiwanis Club and the Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Marcus Wagner
1870 - 1960
Rev. Alvin Wagner
1907 -
Dr. Marcus Wagner was pastor of St. John V. Lutheran Church, Forest Park's first and oldest church, for 41 years. During his ministry, the present church and parish hall were erected, and the school (Forest Park's oldest school) grew from 2 to 11 rooms. The church reached its peak membership under his leadership.
In 1929, his son, Alvin Wagner, was ordained and joined his father as assistant pastor. Together, they served the church and village faithfully and initiated Sunday evening services in the new Village Park, which are well-remembered throughout the village.
When Dr. Marcus retired in 1946, Rev. Alvin left St. John to open a new mission field in the Panama Canal Zone.
1870 - 1960
Rev. Alvin Wagner
1907 -
Dr. Marcus Wagner was pastor of St. John V. Lutheran Church, Forest Park's first and oldest church, for 41 years. During his ministry, the present church and parish hall were erected, and the school (Forest Park's oldest school) grew from 2 to 11 rooms. The church reached its peak membership under his leadership.
In 1929, his son, Alvin Wagner, was ordained and joined his father as assistant pastor. Together, they served the church and village faithfully and initiated Sunday evening services in the new Village Park, which are well-remembered throughout the village.
When Dr. Marcus retired in 1946, Rev. Alvin left St. John to open a new mission field in the Panama Canal Zone.
Carol O. Behnke
1905 - 1979
Instructor, Music Director, Choir Master
Carol Behnke opened the Forest Park School of Music in 1930. She directed the music program and was choir director for Forest Park Day at the World’s Fair in 1933. She served as music director for several schools, various radio programs, and community fairs. She also served for many years as the choir director for both St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Lutheran Churches.
1905 - 1979
Instructor, Music Director, Choir Master
Carol Behnke opened the Forest Park School of Music in 1930. She directed the music program and was choir director for Forest Park Day at the World’s Fair in 1933. She served as music director for several schools, various radio programs, and community fairs. She also served for many years as the choir director for both St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Lutheran Churches.
Dr. Jacob Bieger
1869 - 1911
Pioneer Doctor/School Board Member
After graduating from medical school in 1889, Dr. Bieger set up a practice in Harlem (now Forest Park). He was active in many civic affairs, serving on the Board of Education for several terms. During his tenure, the first addition was made to Garfield School, and lots were purchased for a third school, now Field Stevenson. He was also a member of several lodges and singing societies that were popular at the turn of the century.
1869 - 1911
Pioneer Doctor/School Board Member
After graduating from medical school in 1889, Dr. Bieger set up a practice in Harlem (now Forest Park). He was active in many civic affairs, serving on the Board of Education for several terms. During his tenure, the first addition was made to Garfield School, and lots were purchased for a third school, now Field Stevenson. He was also a member of several lodges and singing societies that were popular at the turn of the century.
Bertha Koepel
1897 - 1983
Teacher
Bertha Koepel taught in Forest Park Public Schools for forty-three years. She was also a dance instructor who generously shared her talent by providing variety shows for many organizations, using her students and other musical talent from Forest Park. Among those who benefited from her skills were the Infant Welfare, Friends of the Library, the American Legion, Forest Park Schools and their PTAs. She taught Sunday school at St. Peter's Church for a time and was a charter member of the Field-Stevenson PTA, the school where she spent most of her lengthy career.
1897 - 1983
Teacher
Bertha Koepel taught in Forest Park Public Schools for forty-three years. She was also a dance instructor who generously shared her talent by providing variety shows for many organizations, using her students and other musical talent from Forest Park. Among those who benefited from her skills were the Infant Welfare, Friends of the Library, the American Legion, Forest Park Schools and their PTAs. She taught Sunday school at St. Peter's Church for a time and was a charter member of the Field-Stevenson PTA, the school where she spent most of her lengthy career.
Viola Gitzel
1903 - 1971
Social Worker, Civic Leader, Library Board Member
Viola Gitzel, a lifelong resident of Forest Park, served our town in many ways. She was an active member and president of the Forest Park Women’s Club, the Women’s Club of America, the Infant Welfare Society, and the Forest Park Centennial Committee. As a longtime member of the Forest Park Library Board and Friends of the Library, she nurtured its growth and expansion. She was very active in St. John Church and was always willing to serve on any project in which she believed.
1903 - 1971
Social Worker, Civic Leader, Library Board Member
Viola Gitzel, a lifelong resident of Forest Park, served our town in many ways. She was an active member and president of the Forest Park Women’s Club, the Women’s Club of America, the Infant Welfare Society, and the Forest Park Centennial Committee. As a longtime member of the Forest Park Library Board and Friends of the Library, she nurtured its growth and expansion. She was very active in St. John Church and was always willing to serve on any project in which she believed.
Henry F. Maiwurm
1855 - 1926
First Postmaster
After the name of our village was changed from Harlem to Forest Park, we were able to have a post office. In 1923, a proclamation was received from President Warren G. Harding appointing Henry F. Maiwurm as the first postmaster of Forest Park, an office he held until his death.
1855 - 1926
First Postmaster
After the name of our village was changed from Harlem to Forest Park, we were able to have a post office. In 1923, a proclamation was received from President Warren G. Harding appointing Henry F. Maiwurm as the first postmaster of Forest Park, an office he held until his death.
Mathilde A. Petersohn
1892 - 1973
Social Worker - Civic Leader - School Board - Library Board
Mathilde A. Petersohn served the people of Forest Park for over 50 years in many different capacities—from selling bonds and helping the homecoming, to working with associated charities and the Proviso Relief Fund volunteers. She helped organize the Garden Club, the Day Nursery, and the Forest Park National Bank, but she is best remembered for her many years on the Library Board and the Board of Education, where she became the first woman to serve as its president.
1892 - 1973
Social Worker - Civic Leader - School Board - Library Board
Mathilde A. Petersohn served the people of Forest Park for over 50 years in many different capacities—from selling bonds and helping the homecoming, to working with associated charities and the Proviso Relief Fund volunteers. She helped organize the Garden Club, the Day Nursery, and the Forest Park National Bank, but she is best remembered for her many years on the Library Board and the Board of Education, where she became the first woman to serve as its president.
Albert Roos
1854-1944
Albert founded the A. Roos and Sons Bank, which became the Harlem Savings Bank (later Forest Park State Bank), in 1897. He was a School Trustee, Village Collector, and President of Harlem Anchor.
1854-1944
Albert founded the A. Roos and Sons Bank, which became the Harlem Savings Bank (later Forest Park State Bank), in 1897. He was a School Trustee, Village Collector, and President of Harlem Anchor.
Albert C. Roos
1882-1965
Joined his father Albert’s bank in 1905 and later became President. Became the First President of Forest Park Businessmen's Association. In 1914, he was appointed Treasurer of School Township 39, an office he held for 50 years. He was Village Collector for several terms and helped organize the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park.
1882-1965
Joined his father Albert’s bank in 1905 and later became President. Became the First President of Forest Park Businessmen's Association. In 1914, he was appointed Treasurer of School Township 39, an office he held for 50 years. He was Village Collector for several terms and helped organize the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park.
Fred B. Roos
1883 - 1943
Joined his father's bank in 1905, later was Vice President. Practiced law here and in Chicago. Village Attorney for many years. First man to represent our town in the state legislature, first as a Representative and then as a Senator.
1883 - 1943
Joined his father's bank in 1905, later was Vice President. Practiced law here and in Chicago. Village Attorney for many years. First man to represent our town in the state legislature, first as a Representative and then as a Senator.
Bess Roos
1884 - 1977
Wife of Albert C., Bess was very active in social and welfare work, both at home and overseas. She was also on the Library Board for many years.
1884 - 1977
Wife of Albert C., Bess was very active in social and welfare work, both at home and overseas. She was also on the Library Board for many years.
Otto Reich
1889 - 1939
Businessman, Village Official, Philanthropist
Beganl work in 1913. Served as Village Treasurer, Commissioner, and was a favored candidate for Mayor when he died. Best remembered for his generous help to many people.
1889 - 1939
Businessman, Village Official, Philanthropist
Beganl work in 1913. Served as Village Treasurer, Commissioner, and was a favored candidate for Mayor when he died. Best remembered for his generous help to many people.
Ernest Reich
1886 - 1963
Banker, Real Estate Assessor
Assistant Cashier, Harlem State Savings Bank. Opened real estate and insurance firm in 1919. Township Assessor for 6 years. Joined by Fred Becker in the 1930s to form the firm Reich & Becker Real Estate.
1886 - 1963
Banker, Real Estate Assessor
Assistant Cashier, Harlem State Savings Bank. Opened real estate and insurance firm in 1919. Township Assessor for 6 years. Joined by Fred Becker in the 1930s to form the firm Reich & Becker Real Estate.
Vernon Reich
1910 - 1966
Attorney, Political Offices, Naval Officer
Law practice in 1934. Police Magistrate, 1939.
Mayor, three terms from 1943 to 1955.
Naval Officer, WWII.
State Representative, two terms.
Elected Commissioner in 1963, serving until the time of his death.
1910 - 1966
Attorney, Political Offices, Naval Officer
Law practice in 1934. Police Magistrate, 1939.
Mayor, three terms from 1943 to 1955.
Naval Officer, WWII.
State Representative, two terms.
Elected Commissioner in 1963, serving until the time of his death.
Marlene Oney Quandt
1936 -
Marlene, a Forest Park native, was employed by the Village in 1957 as Administrative Secretary to the Village Clerk and Mayor. Early on, she was appointed Deputy Village Clerk and ultimately attained the designation of Certified Municipal Clerk. The last ten years of her forty-year career she spent serving as Village Clerk. Ms. Quandt also participated in numerous civic endeavors, including the School District's Citizens Advisory Committee, the Community Chest, the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, and the German-American Heritage Institute, as well as the Altenheim's Board of Directors.
1936 -
Marlene, a Forest Park native, was employed by the Village in 1957 as Administrative Secretary to the Village Clerk and Mayor. Early on, she was appointed Deputy Village Clerk and ultimately attained the designation of Certified Municipal Clerk. The last ten years of her forty-year career she spent serving as Village Clerk. Ms. Quandt also participated in numerous civic endeavors, including the School District's Citizens Advisory Committee, the Community Chest, the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, and the German-American Heritage Institute, as well as the Altenheim's Board of Directors.
Cynthia Lu (Quitsch) Lyons
1947 - 1998
Cindy Lyons lived her entire life in Forest Park and was often quoted as saying, "I'll never leave." She served as Director of the Howard Mohr Community Center for 14 years, during which time she touched many lives. She was known as the smiling woman who transformed the Center into the hub of community and social services it is today. Cindy, designated Citizen of the Year in 1989, also found time to be involved in scouting, the Lion's Club, the Community Education Council, chaired the United Way fund drive, established the Forest Park Food Pantry, the Holiday Gift Basket program, and Clubhouse (a summer day camp in conjunction with School District 91), and much more.
1947 - 1998
Cindy Lyons lived her entire life in Forest Park and was often quoted as saying, "I'll never leave." She served as Director of the Howard Mohr Community Center for 14 years, during which time she touched many lives. She was known as the smiling woman who transformed the Center into the hub of community and social services it is today. Cindy, designated Citizen of the Year in 1989, also found time to be involved in scouting, the Lion's Club, the Community Education Council, chaired the United Way fund drive, established the Forest Park Food Pantry, the Holiday Gift Basket program, and Clubhouse (a summer day camp in conjunction with School District 91), and much more.