Cook County Commissioner Robert Steele dies

Cook County Commissioner Robert Steele died Monday afternoon at his North Lawndale neighborhood home after a long battle with diabetes. He was 55.

"I am saddened to learn of the death today of Commissioner Robert Steele," Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a statement. "Robert's life was marked by his long career in public service for the residents of Chicago and Cook County."

Steele was sworn in to the 2nd District board seat previously held by his mother, Bobbie Steele, when she retired in 2006. She was the first woman to serve as Cook County Board president after the unexpected death of John Stroger.

Robert Steele previously was a Chicago Park District administrator who was heavily involved in community-based efforts in his native West Side.

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