Benjamin M. Squires

Benjamin Mark Squires, age 95, passed away on April 25, 2021 in his Lincoln Park home. Ben was a lifelong Chicagoan, avid runner, an Independent Democrat and devoted public health advocate. Born on the South Side of Chicago in 1925, Ben was the oldest of four. He grew up in the South Shore neighborhood before moving with his family to Evanston. After serving as a tail gunner in World War II with multiple combat missions over Germany, Ben returned home where he graduated from Northwestern University. From his early days teaching to business consulting, Ben found his calling when he went to work for the State of Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). He spent more than 20 years working for IDPH on various initiatives and found a real passion for leading infant mortality reduction programs in Chicago. When he wasn't working, he was running. Ben was a founding member of the Lincoln Park Pacers running club in 1984, the first of its kind in Chicago. He ran countless marathons and ultra-marathons, setting a record in his age group after running 93 miles in 24 hours. The Chicago Marathon became a staple for him and when he could no longer run, he was in the front row at Clark and Fullerton cheering on the runners. Ben loved home improvement projects, camping, canoeing, playing boogie woogie on the piano, picnicking at Diversey Harbor and connecting with young people. He and his late wife Susan loved to throw parties, enjoyed a good Gin & Tonic and always offered a room to their daughters friends. Ben is survived by his two daughters, Amy (Frank Ishman) and Sarah (Mike Doyle) and his beloved granddaughter Tessa who played some tunes on his piano during his final days. In lieu of flowers, Ben asked that donations be sent to Health and Medicine Policy Research Group where he proudly served as a Board member for many years. Services are pending.