Fitting tribute: The memory of the late William Yaeger, a former area resident, was honored last month by Maryville Academy with the dedication of the William Yaeger Gym at the St. John of God Shelter, 51st and South Elizabeth Streets, Chicago.
The dedication was attended by his wife, Karen, and his children, 5-year-old William and 3-year-old Samantha, of Bolingbrook; parents, Bill and Karen Yaeger, of Mokena and brothers, Glenn of Hinsdale and Matthew of Chicago.
The shelter is one of 16 residential facilities operated by the Des Plaines-based academy. Maryville serves children from infancy to age 18 who are victims of abuse and neglect as well as children with behavioral and learning disorders. (In 1996, 1,100 children received residential care, and another 18,000 received services through the Columbus/Maryville Reception Center shelter system for Cook County.)
Yaeger, who died in October of viral encephalitis, had been a consultant and program manager for Maryville since 1986. According to Rev. David Ryan, Maryville’s chief operating officer, Yaeger’s job was to set up new shelters, working with the staff and the kids.
“Bill went where the greatest need was, and he always looked for ways to make things better for the kids,” said Ryan.
Yaeger’s last assignment at St. John of God was to set up the program for 66 teenage boys. Concerned about the area’s gang population, Yaeger and the staff were determined to provide safe recreational opportunities, Ryan explained.
“From a place to pray to a place to play, the old church (closed several years ago by the Archdiocese of Chicago) was converted into a gym. It’s fitting that it carries Bill’s name.
“Bill’s spirit continues to impact and motivate the staff and the kids here. He is missed. He was always positive, upbeat and encouraging others. Very few people knew of his struggle with Crohn’s disease (as well). Nothing stopped him from giving.”
