Larry Walsh Sr. Dies: 4-Term Will County Executive

JOLIET, IL — Will County Executive Larry Walsh Sr., a four-term Democrat from Elwood who championed the construction of a new Will County Sheriff's Office law enforcement center on Laraway Road plus the construction of the new Will County Courthouse that will open in late October, died Wednesday evening after a long battle with prostate cancer, his staff announced.

Walsh was 72.

Walsh died around 7:30 p.m. following a courageous battle with prostate cancer, his staff said. Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.

Walsh had battled complications from prostate cancer for more than five years. In late 2018, Walsh again began chemotherapy treatments after the cancer returned, his staff said.

"Larry cared about the residents he served and never wanted to say no to a request for help," Walsh's longtime chief of staff Nick Palmer said in a statement issued Wednesday night.

"Larry is a one of a kind guy who always had a hearty laugh and smile for those he interacted with, no matter a person's place in life. He knew the cleaning crew, and he knew the President of the United States Barack Obama. He loved them all and always talked about the friendships he had made throughout his life in Will County. His passing has left a huge void in this community and I will truly miss his friendship," Palmer added.

Several Will County politicians have issued statements expressing their sadness.

"Will County has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of County Executive Larry Walsh. Larry truly loved the people of Will County and worked tirelessly for their benefit," Will County State's Attorney Jim Glasgow said Thursday. "His four terms as County Executive were the final chapter in a lifetime of dedicated service to Will County and the State of Illinois. He touched countless people's lives and will be greatly missed. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Irene, Larry's wife of many decades, and to his entire family. Rest in Peace, Larry Walsh."

"Larry's passing is a tremendous loss to his family, certainly, but also to the community," said Denise Winfrey, speaker of the Will County Board. "He dedicated his life to service. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve with him and learn from him. He touched numerous lives, forged alliances and reached out to work with people from all walks of life. The work he has done speaks for him. Rest in peace Larry, job well done."

Walsh's staff said that Walsh was known for his strong commitment to serving his community. Walsh began public service at age 21 on the Elwood School Board, which he followed as the Jackson Township Supervisor, a Will County Board member and then as an Illinois state senator.

In 2004, the voters elected Walsh as the Will County executive. Walsh was the longest serving county executive and led the fourth largest county Illinois.

Republicans on Will County's board were also saddened by the news of Walsh's death.

"Larry loved Will County and being the county executive," said Will County Republican board member Jim Moustis. "He always wanted the best for the people of Will County and was a true leader. I will sadly miss him and have had great respect for him, despite our differences at times."

Last August, Walsh announced he would not be seeking a fifth term in office in the November 2020 elections.

"I have been so blessed to have a role and a front row seat to witness the tremendous growth of Will County," Walsh stated in a press release. "Now I want the opportunity to watch my grandchildren grow up. Anyone in public service understands this is not a nine to five job.

"You must truly have your heart and soul focused to (serve) in public office."

Walsh and his wife, Irene, have six children and 20 grandchildren.

"Larry leaves behind an incredible legacy of working to improve people's lives," stated Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. "He was a passionate and dedicated public servant whose numerous contributions made our communities and state a better place. My heart goes out to the Walsh family."

Bertino-Tarrant won the Democratic primary in March, and she is running to become the next Will County Executive in the November general election, facing Republican challenger Nick Ficarello.

"Larry Walsh believed in retail politics," remarked Will County Republican Party Chairman George Pearson. "He greeted me each time we met with a firm handshake, a smile, and pat to the shoulder. You would not have known we were on opposite sides of the political aisle, and that is what made him popular with Will County residents."

Pearson said that last Aug. 22, he attended Walsh's announcement to not seek reelection for a fifth term as County Executive.

"His speech was witty and heartwarming. Walsh told the standing room only gallery that his doctor wanted him to concentrate on getting better, Larry stated. 'But I had other ideas. That sounds good, Doc, but I got a campaign to run. But my doctor said, 'No campaign.' Laughter filled the packed Will County Board chamber filled with well-wishers, supporters, and political rivals, and there were very few dry eyes because his speech represented an end of an era."