Calvin Richard Myers

Calvin (Cal) Richard Myers, age 82, peacefully passed away on August 2, 2025. He was born on December 15, 1942 to Richard and Marion (Veale) Myers of Big Rock, IL. At an early age, he developed a love for both the outdoors and for baseball. He graduated from Hinckley-Big Rock High School in 1960. After graduation, he journeyed from the rural setting to enroll as a freshman at Aurora College. As an undergraduate, Cal distinguished himself both as a student and as an athlete. He earned varsity letters in both baseball and basketball and was coached by Aurora College legendary coach, Sam Bedrosian. After graduating from Aurora College, Cal earned his MBA from the University of Chicago where he studied under Nobel Prize recipient, Milton Friedman. He would later go on to earn his Ph.D. in Economics from Northern Illinois University. He joined the Aurora College faculty in 1966 as a Business and Economics professor, later becoming chair of the department. He was also assistant coach of the baseball team. While being a demanding teacher and coach, he had the reputation for being sincerely concerned for his students and players. He met his wife, Jan, in 1967 while living in the same apartment complex. He liked to quip that, in a way, they lived together before it became fashionable. They married on December 28, 1968. During their marriage they traveled and served as volunteers throughout the community. He joined Aurora's Merchants National Bank in 1977 and was named President & CEO in 1989. During his tenure as a banker and after his retirement, he served on numerous community boards and organizations. In 1987 he received the Outstanding Alumni Award from Aurora University, and in 2014 he was inducted into the Spartan Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church for over forty years and served on the finance committee. Cal enjoyed all Chicago sports but especially his beloved Cubbies. He also enjoyed golf, jogging, and tennis. He could often be seen cheering on the Aurora University Spartan baseball and basketball teams. Cal was a regular attendee of his grandchildren's school and athletic events. He was well known for his masterful wood working skills and cultivating his large vegetable garden. He also enjoyed a good political discussion while sipping a glass of scotch. Cal is survived by the loves and joys of his life. His wife, Jan, of 56 years, his daughter, Jennifer, her husband, Steve, and his grandchildren, Charlie and Grace. He also shared a close relationship with his sister-in-law, Jackie. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Craig. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Bickford and Angels Grace Hospice for their care and kindness. A remembrance gathering will be held at Aurora Country Club on September 5, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 12:00 followed by a short program and luncheon for family and friends. Private arrangements are under the care of The Daleiden Mortuary, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, IL 60506 630-631-5500. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society.