[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 84 (Tuesday, May 5, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E423]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                       IN MEMORY OF AARON SHEPLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SEAN CASTEN

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 5, 2020

  Mr. CASTEN of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the 
life of Aaron Shepley. The State of Illinois has lost one of its most 
capable and dedicated public servants with the tragic death of Crystal 
Lake's longtime Mayor. In his long service to the community, as both 
mayor and city council member, a founding member of the drumline group 
the Crystal Lake Strikers, and dedicated husband and father, Aaron led 
with quiet humility, approachability, and selflessness.
  A resident of Crystal Lake since 1972, Aaron was passionate and 
unwavering in his advocacy for the city, and eager to work in a 
unifying and positive manner to assist its residents. In a time when 
politics more often divides us, Aaron was most professionally proud of 
the congenial relationships among his fellow council members and the 
work of the Crystal Lake city staff. He leaves a beautiful legacy of 
highly competent and unselfish public service that should inspire us 
all.
  In addition to his civic work, Aaron was also a drummer dedicated to 
supporting aspiring musicians. After learning to play drums for his 
40th birthday, Aaron and two friends started Strikers, a drum line for 
adult percussionists. In the decade since their founding, the Strikers 
have gained local and national notoriety, and created several 
educational programs to support the performing arts in the northwest 
suburbs of Chicago. Aaron was the driving force behind the Strikers' 
Evening of Percussion fundraising event, and in the 11 years of 
awarding scholarships, the Strikers have provided over $50,000 to local 
students.
  Aaron Shepley was a class act, and I am grateful to have known and 
learned from him. I extend my deepest sympathy to Aaron's wife Regan 
and their daughters Chase and Madison, and the people of Crystal Lake, 
for this tremendous loss.

                          ____________________