Retired Ill. Supreme Court Justice Dead At 82

Retired Illinois Supreme Court Justice John Nickels, who worked to increase the legal access of low-income people, has died after a long illness at age 82.

Illinois Supreme Court spokesman Joe Tybor says Nickels died Monday at his home
in Maple Park.

Nickels served six years on the state high court during the 1990s, participating in 820 cases. He authored 95 majority opinions, including a decision that struck down a gang loitering ordinance in Chicago. The U.S. Supreme Court later upheld Nickels’ decision.

He grew up on a dairy farm in Kane County and credited his background with shaping his values.

Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Kilbride said in a statement Tuesday that Nickels was “a real role model” and “a gentle and most hospitable man.” (AP)