I’m in shock. From the Herald:

Harper College trustee and Wheeling Township Democrat Committeeman Patrick Botterman died of a massive heart attack Monday.

Pat had literally just emailed me yesterday morning about helping him out on a project.

While he could be a bulldog he was a good man; and worked his tail off for the underdogs and the little guys. I’m speechless.

He will be missed, even by those who didn’t know him but were impacted by his hard work, his dedication and above all, his integrity. Whether you agreed with him or not, you always knew he’d be straight as an arrow with you.

God Bless the Botterman family and all of Pat’s many, many friends as we grieve. We lost a true patriot yesterday.

Update: Rich Miller has some info and Rep. John Fritchey offers us this eloquent eulogy.

Update 2: E Man and Yoda recall their colorful experiences with Botter Boy. Both their stories are like so many others’ — there is quite the Botterman Alumni Club out there.

Update 3: I’ve changed the site header for the next few days. Yes, Botterman was that special.

Update 4: The Arlington Heights Post reports:

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Harper College Educational Foundation (note Patrick Botterman Scholarship Fund), 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine.

You may also donate directly online at the Harper College Educational Foundation Botterman Scholarship Fund.