Above / Looking through hundreds of photos of Mayor George Pradel in everything from top hats to sweat shirts, we recall the time in 2014 when he was driving his good buddy Jack McCambridge around downtown Naperville after the Labor Day Parade, proudly displaying their service to the U.S. Marine Corps.
Statement from City Manager Doug Krieger on the passing of Mayor Emeritus A. George Pradel at approximately 9:30AM, surrounded by his three children, George, Carol and Gary.
Mon., Sept. 4 / “The entire City of Naperville mourns today over the loss of Mayor Emeritus A. George Pradel. George’s enthusiasm for this City and love for its residents was second only to the love for his family – in fact, it was the Pradel family’s support for him that allowed George to devote so much of his life to Naperville.
“George was the kind of man who knew everyone’s name and, when he saw you, no matter how busy he was, he’d stop and see how you were doing. Everyone was equal in George’s eyes – you were a cherished member of his extended Naperville family, and from the first time he met you, you were a friend.
“We grieve the loss of George but are thankful that his time spent as a police officer, our Mayor and our first Mayor Emeritus changed Naperville forever. I am humbled and grateful that I could call this man my friend, and I join the many who are sending their sympathy to the entire Pradel family today.”
Original Post / After an extended hospital stay, Mayor George Pradel, age 80, is now in hospice care.
The Pradel children, George, Carol and Gary, have created a website where individuals will find updates about his condition and can share thoughts.
“Sunday, Sept. 2, 2018 (www.pradel.com)
As you may know, our dad, A. George Pradel (known to most as “George,” “Officer Friendly,” or even “Mayor Pradel”) is currently in hospice care. Several weeks ago, he was admitted to Edward Hospital, suffering from severe pain in his back and neck. Doctors found a cancerous tumor. The cancer quickly spread to his whole body.”
Known for his community spirit, many kindnesses and celebrating the birthday he shared on Sept. 5 with many local residents of all ages, Pradel served for mayor from 1995 to 2015, longer than any other Naperville mayor.
For updates and/or to share your thoughts for Mayor Pradel and his family, click here.
RELATED POSTS FROM THE PAST WITH PHOTOS… MAYOR GEORGE PRADEL… CLICK HERE…
Visitation for Mayor A. George Pradel / 10AM-6PM Sept. 8 & 9 at City Hall
Times for visitation for Mayor A. George Pradel will be 10AM to 6PM Sat., September 8 and Sun., September 9, 2018, at Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St., Naperville, IL 60540.
Funeral services will be private.
Private interment: Naperville Cemetery, Naperville.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mayor Pradel’s memory may be made to: The Arthur Ray Foundation, 902 Sumter Ct., Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 729-3182, www.arthurray.org.
The Arthur Ray Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The ongoing goal of the Arthur Ray Foundation is to help organizations like Safety Town of Naperville, Naperville Responds for our Veterans, Little Friends, Inc., and many others that help children and adults using art and technology. All donated funds will be distributed to Mayor Pradel’s favorite local charities.
Arrangements are being made by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville.
