Village Bids Farewell to Beloved Executive Assistant

In a heartfelt and emotional tribute Monday night, village officials celebrated longtime executive assistant Rose Yates, who will retire next month after 26 years of service.

"I ... with mayors before me, humbly say thank you to Rosemay Yates on behalf of the Village of Lemont, not only for the time on the clock, but the countless hours serving the community through various community groups and commissions," said Lemont Mayor Brian Reaves. "You will be truly missed."

The Lemont Village Board meeting was packed Monday night with Yates's friends and family, as well as numerous village and township officials. Reaves was joined by former mayors Joe Forzley, Rich Kwasneski and John Piazza—all of whom served during Yates's time at the village.

"I have known Rose for many, many years—personally and professionally—and she's done an outstanding job," Forzley said. "She has been a shining star in Lemont."

Yates, a longtime Lemont resident, began working for the village in the Water Department in 1985. She has been an active member of and the , and has volunteered countless hours at community events.

In 2002, she was honored as the Citizen of the Year.

Richard Lee, president of the Lemont Area Historical Society, presented Yates with lifetime membership to the group Monday. She was also surprised with a large charcoal drawing of by recent Lemont High School graduate Jessica Kaminsky.

In Their Words: Well Wishes for Rose

Mayor Brian Reaves (2009-present):

"It can not be said enough how much you do for us. It is unspeakable the amount of time that you put in. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much. We look forward to seeing you around time and playing golf with you, and we hope we'll only have to call two or three times a week to start off with."

Former Mayor Joseph Forzley (1989-1993):

"All in all, she has done an outstanding job. She's been an outstanding administrator, she's loyal and dedicated. She has also volunteered her time, efforts and skills to numerous organizations. Rose is well-respected in our community and is held in high regards by many, many people."

Former Mayor John Kwasneski (1993-2001):

"I appreciate everything you did for me and the village, Rose. Everything was in order ... I think that's something [Mayor Reaves] is really going to miss, and I think he would agree."

Former Mayor John Piazza (2001-2009):

"We've used all the adjectives—dedicated, hardworking, loyal, trusted, helpful. I've had the extreme pleasure of working with Rose for eight years. I use the term 'with,' and I have to emphasize that. She didn't work for any [of the mayors], she worked for the people of Lemont.

"Rose is certainly deserving of all the accolades tonight. If I had to think of one word to sum it up, I'd say 'ambassador.' She's a consummate professional and the best ambassador we could have for the Village of Lemont. She is the face of Lemont, like we said in the proclamation."

Lemont Village Administrator Ben Wehmeier:

"You've been a joy to work with you since I started as a lowly intern back in 2004—welcoming me with open arms and making sure my family was taken care of while I was gone. And I could never say thank you enough."

Lemont Township Supervisor Steve Rosendahl:

"Thank you Rose for all you've done, on behalf of the township. The township and the village's partnership is much stronger because of the efforts you've made, along with the board. You just can't say enough about Rose. You'll be missed, but never forgotten."

From the Lemont Patch Facebook page:

"Rose has been a tireless advocate for the Village of Lemont and in preserving the history of our community. She worked with many Mayors to help keep this village running. If you ever had a problem, you could call Rose and she would be there to help you in any way possible. This Village will miss her at her work, but not in the community, she will still be a strong presence helping any way she can. We love you Rose!" — Linda Stoops 

"Rose is the best. — James Mandra

"Rose is one wonderful lady! I wish her all the best on her next career -- RELAXING! Congratulations and THANK YOU, Rose, for the many, many things you've done for Lemont. You will be missed!" — Chris Rinchich