In honor of local heroes, Ridge Funeral Home took time to honor those who dedicate their time and lives to helping others.
The funeral home, 6620 W. Archer Avenue, Chicago, hosted a First Responders Appreciation Cookout on September 7 as a thank you to local police officers and firefighters, and all first responders, for their service, dedication and contributions to the public.
The event, which was coincidental with the timing of 9/11 memorials, has been held for more than 20 years, and always on the first Saturday of September. The reason being, so it does not conflict with other planned events during the busy September month, according to officials at Ridge Funeral Home.
“This cookout is a way for us to give back to the community,” said Ed Tylka, former Director of Ridge Funeral Home. “We have lots of active police and firemen and women in our area and it’s a nice way to say thank you.
“At Ridge Funeral Home, we have a great respect for all of our first responders, and especially to all those who have worked closely and directly with the funeral home over the years. We appreciate all that they do, all that they have done and all that they continue to do for our community.”
Tylka, of Lockport and formerly of Garfield Ridge, retired as director from the Ridge Funeral Home in April. He is still very actively involved at the funeral home and community engagements, staying humble but considering himself semi-retired. He still has many ties to the local community and said he enjoys spending time with residents in the area.
Once again, he proudly planned the annual First Responders Cookout, as he does every year.
“I have lots of friends and family members that are first responders, so it’s wonderful to be able to offer them and the entire community one big thank you,” Tylka said.
Police officers, firefighters and their families enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food and refreshments thanks to Tylka and the entire staff at Ridge Funeral Home who provided the barbecued food free of charge.
Live musical entertainment, airbrush tattoos and a jumping jack inflatable playground was available for children who attended, giving them the opportunity to join in on the fun and friendly comradery.
“This means the world to use, and especially even more so during these difficult times,” Chicago Police Department Sgt. Rudy Vargas said. “We are out here working 12-hour days and it’s amazing that the community has taken the time to show their appreciation for us. For us, that’s what it’s all about – our community.”
Tom Kotrba, Funeral Director at Ridge Funeral Home, agreed with Vargas and said the funeral home continues to receive plenty of positive praise each year from first responders and all event attendees.
“This annual cookout really just brings the whole community together,” Kotrba said. “It’s not only for first responders, it’s for their entire families, and people look forward to it every year. Everyone just loves everything about it.”
