He left his mark on Mount Prospect
Richard L. Jesse ~ 1928-2007
A former Mount Prospect comptroller and deputy finance director who helped deal with a flood control loan program 20 years ago after the last so-called "storm of the century," has died.
Richard L. Jesse served the village for 28 years, through its biggest period of growth in the 1960s and '70s, until he retired in 1988.
The 48-year Mount Prospect resident passed away Wednesday. He was 78.
Village Manager Michael Janonis worked as the assistant manager during Jesse's last five years, and while staff members relied on his financial expertise they remembered him more for his warmth and gentle nature.
"He was a professional in every way, but he was also a very nice guy," Janonis said. "He was very thoughtful and caring."
Two of the projects he worked on near the end of his career were among his most significant, Janonis said, including developing the flood control loan program in 1987 and the concept of Citizen Appreciation Bonds.
The latter allowed residents to buy back the village's debt in order to help finance the new public works building.
"It was pretty unique at the time, for residents to be able to invest in their own community directly," Janonis said. "Dick was very involved in that."
During his career, Jesse also served on the Mount Prospect Police Pension Board and was elected president of the Illinois Government Finance Officers Association.
When he retired, he assumed his "dream job," acquaintances say, when he served as business manager for Christ Church United Church of Christ in Des Plaines from 1989 to 2002.
As the church's financial officer, he worked with members in planning their financial giving, as well as promoting the church's stewardship program.
"He really lived his faith," said the Rev. Virginia Ericson. "His life was a model of true stewardship."
Jesse is survived by his wife, Rochelle, and five children: Jolene (Michael) Sandberg, Deanna (Michael) Tangen, Jennifer (the Rev. Keith) Schreiner, David (Tamara) Jesse and Traci (Daniel) Sweeney, as well as nine grandchildren.
Visitation will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Friedrich's Funeral Home, 320 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Christ Church United Church of Christ, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines.