The Village of Summit honored longtime resident and public servant Pat Tichacek by dedicating a street in her name on July 24.
The corner of 59th Street and 74th Avenue now bears the name Patricia H. Tichacek Lane, recognizing more than four decades of civic involvement in the village.
Tichacek, 87, was born and raised in Summit. She and her husband, George, also a Summit native, raised three children in the village and later moved into the home where George was born.
She began her service to the community as a commissioner with the Summit Park District, where she volunteered for more than 30 years. During that time, she helped organize programs and events including ethnic festivals, fall celebrations, and youth sports leagues.
In 1989, Tichacek became the first woman elected as a village trustee in 100 years. She served 16 years on the board and later spent nine years as village clerk. She currently serves on the Summit Zoning Board of Appeals.
Her daughter, Colleen Lambert, is following in her mom’s footsteps. She started out as a village trustee before moving up to village clerk, her current position.
The date of the dedication was also significant to Tichacek and her family. July 24 marked what would have been her parents’ 88th wedding anniversary and her mother’s 112th birthday.
Tichacek’s family, including her three children, 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, many of whom traveled from out of state, attended the ceremony.
Speakers at the dedication included Summit Mayor Sergio Rodriguez, Township of Lyons Supervisor Christopher Getty, state Sen. Mike Porfirio, Village Attorney Burt Odelson, and members of Tichacek’s family.
Each speaker had the same sentiment-that Tichacek has spent her life serving not only her family, but her community.
A teary-eyed Tichacek thanked the Village of Summit and everyone in attendance, saying it’s been a privilege for her to serve her community.
A luncheon followed the ceremony at the Summit Fire Department across the street.