Darien’s Good Neighbor…Jim Tikalsky

With the Independence Day Parade right around the corner, there is a good neighbor amongst us that has made a huge impact on the continuation of this community tradition. Jim Tikalsky has been a resident of Darien since the age of 5 and attended Hinsdale South High School. He is an active member of the Darien Lions Club and on June 11 he received the coveted Lion of the Year Award. 

Lion Jim has chaired numerous Lion committees such as: the Beer Tent, Corn Tent, Halloween Party, Blood Drive, Candy Day, Convention hospitality suite, Eyeglasses, Independence Day Parade, Pancake Breakfast and many more Lion sponsored events.  

He has also served on the board of directors as Director of Publicity, Tail Twister and Lion Tamer positions. Lion Jim has also been available with his music and shining personality to provide entertainment at our Lion functions when asked. He never says no.  

Jim has a passion for helping others. To quote his sister Jane “ He has devoted most of his life to community service in Darien. The Darien community is his extended family and with the Lions Club he can help fulfill the needs of the community.”

Jim also gives his time to many other community groups including the Darien Historical Society, where he recently served as President. He currently serves as a commissioner for the Darien Park District and is a retired Darien City Council Alderman.

Fellow Historical Society member Alice Brennan adds, "Having worked with Jim for many years at the historical society, I saw an accomplished goal-setter. He would always take care of it. Surely Old Lace Schoolhouse & Museum benefitted from his guidance and know-how both inside and outdoors. He knew where to lead the parade!"

Because of this spirit, in 2008 Jim was selected the Darien Citizen of the Year.

All of these attributes make Jim Tikalsky a Good Neighbor and someone you should know!