Longtime Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley has died at 56.
Shepley served as mayor of the northwest suburban city for 21 years from 1999 until his death Sunday, making him its longest serving mayor, according to a statement from the City of Crystal Lake.
Shepley was pronounced dead at his home Monday morning, according to The Daily Herald. No cause of death was immediately given and calls to the McHenry County coroner were not immediately returned.
Before he was elected mayor, Shepley served as a city council member from 1997 to 1999.
“Mayor Shepley championed a united City Council, working together for one purpose and vision: to make Crystal Lake a great place to live,” the statement from Crystal Lake reads in part. “Mayor Shepley loved Crystal Lake and was a strong advocate for our community. We celebrate his life and trust that his legacy will inspire all residents and businesses to serve their community. The City of Crystal Lake extends our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time.”
Shepley was involved in local government since attending Eastern Illinois University. He grew up in Crystal Lake and practiced law at a firm in the Loop.
