Former state representative and Cook County CFO Henry Woods "Woody" Bowman was killed in an auto accident July 10 in Southwest Michigan.
Bowman's wife, Michele Thompson, sustained injuries in the accident.
Bowman served in the state House, representing Evanston during 1977-1990 and was a member of the House Appropriations Committee for seven years. He was chief financial officer for Cook County during 1991-1994. Bowman gave up his House seat to run for state comptroller, but that post ultimately went to his opponent, Dawn Clark Netsch. Bowman also taught for many years at Depaul University.
On Capitol Fax, Rich Miller wrote that Bowman "spoke in terms that ordinary people could understand. You listened to him not because he commanded it or because he bragged about his education and experience, but because he was so bright and interesting and innovative. He was truly an exemplary public servantthe kind we need so much more of, but the sort of modest person who never gets a statue or plaque erected on his behalf."
In a July 13 statement, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle reflected on Bowman's accomplishments.
"I was saddened to hear of the death of Woods Bowman in a tragic auto accident last weekend," Preckwinle said. "'Woody' was a fixture in Illinois politics and government for decades. He served with integrity in the state House of Representatives and later, as the county's chief financial officer under Board President Richard Phelan. Even after he left that position, he remained committed to Cook County, serving most recently as a member of my Task Force on unincorporated areas. I offer my deep regrets at Woody's passing and extend my wishes for a speedy recovery for his wife Michele."
Capitol Fax's article is at capitolfax.com/2015/07/14/woods-bowman/.