Chicago City Wire

On December 10, 2014, Judy Baar Topinka died unexpectedly, leaving Chicago and Illinois in mourning. Born in Riverside, IL, on January 16, 1944, Topinka had a profound connection to the city and its people. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to public service, serving as a journalist and later as a political figure. Topinka's career was marked by numerous achievements, including being elected as Illinois State Treasurer in 1994, making her the first woman to hold the position. She was known for her tireless advocacy for education, healthcare, and economic development initiatives, always prioritizing the needs of Chicago's diverse communities. Topinka's pragmatic leadership style earned her bipartisan respect and admiration, and she continued to serve the people of Chicago until her untimely death. Her passing left a void in the city's political landscape, but her legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service lives on, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps.