Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka will be missed by members of the Illinois Association of REALTORS®.
The Republican was popular on both sides of the aisle, and came from a real estate background. IAR worked with her on many occasions on issues of interest to the association’s members. She died early this morning (Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014) of complications from a stroke.
“We have always admired the passion, straightforward manner, political shrewdness and frankly, the fun that Judy Baar Topinka brought to her many years of public service,” said Illinois Association of REALTORS® President Jim Kinney, ABR, CRB, CRS, GRI. “As REALTORS® we knew we could reach out to her on any concern and that we would get a fair hearing. She understood our issues and we considered her a great friend.”
Topinka served in the state House and Senate, and as Illinois Treasurer and Comptroller. She had just won re-election as comptroller in November.