William James Laurino

William was born April 27, 1941 in Chicago to Ald. Anthony C. and Marie Laurino.

He was educated at St. Patrick High School, Wilbur Wright College, and Loyola University. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969.

William was elected to the sixth Illinois Constitutional Convention from the 14th District in 1969. He was later elected to the Illinois House of Representatives where he and served from 1971 to 1996.

He served on various House committees and held several leadership posts including chairman of the Elections Committee and the Insurance, Pensions and Licensed Activities Committee. When he retired, the 15th District representative was Assistant Minority Leader and an ex-officio member of all House committees. William successfully sponsored several pieces of legislation, including the passage of mandatory car insurance for Illinois drivers.

William also served as president of the 39th Ward Regular Democratic Organization.

He was athletic and very active. He enjoyed football, softball, handball, golf, skiing and boating.

After retiring from the legislature, William spent his winters in Naples, Florida. He and his wife, Rosanne Herling-Laurino enjoyed being snowbirds, traveling, and rooting for the Chicago Cubs.

Honorable William James Laurino was preceded in death by his wife, Rosanne Herling-Laurino; his parents, Anthony and Marie Laurino; his sister, Marie “Cookie” (the late John) D’Amico. He was the beloved brother of Honorable Margaret Laurino (Randy Barnette); proud uncle of Honorable John (Christine) D’Amico, James (Dawn) D’Amico, and John (Mara) Hundrieser; brother-in-law of Sean (Kathleen) Herling, Daniel Herling (Ronald Crook), Peggy (late Steven) Janes, Thomas P. (Eva) Herling, Eileen (Darryl) Corter, and the late Anthony (Sharon) Herling.

He was an amazing son, brother, uncle, great uncle and friend to many and will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 9:00 AM until time of funeral mass 10:00 AM at Queen of All Saints Basilica, 6280 N Sauganash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60646.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in William’s name may be made to: Misericordia Heart of Mercy at www.misericordia.com/giving/