Stickney Mayor Jeff Walik, former police officer, dies

STICKNEY, Ill. (WLS) -- The mayor of suburban Stickney has died.

Jeff Walik was a former police officer.

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In a statement, the Stickney Police Department said for many officers, Walik was more than a mayor.

They said he was a friend, co-worker and mentor.

Further details have not been released.

Harvey's mayor died in January.

The Stickney Police Department said:

"Today, the Village of Stickney and the Stickney Police Department mourn the loss of Mayor Jeff Walik, a man whose life was deeply woven into the fabric of this community. Long before he served as Mayor, Jeff served this village as a Stickney Police Officer. He wore the badge with pride, dedication, and a genuine love for the people he protected. Even after a career-ending injury, his commitment to Stickney never faded. He simply found another way to continue serving the town he cared so deeply about. For many within this department, Jeff was more than a Mayor. He was a friend, a co-worker, a mentor, and part of an era that many still look back on with pride and gratitude. His stories, his humor, and his unwavering passion for this village left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Jeff never stopped believing in Stickney. He fought for this community, stood beside its residents, and carried the village with him in everything he did. His legacy will live on not only through his years of service, but through the countless lives he touched along the way. On behalf of the Stickney Police Department, we extend our deepest condolences to the Walik family, his friends, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss. Rest peacefully, Mayor Walik. Your watch has ended, but your impact on this village never will."

The McCook Police Department said:

"It is with a heavy heart that we pause to honor and remember Jeff Walik who passed today- a man who dedicated so much of himself to the Village of Stickney, both on the streets and in the halls of leadership. Before he served as Mayor, Jeff walked the beat as one of Stickney's own - a police officer who showed up every day to protect and serve this community, until he was injured on the job. Those of us lucky enough to have known him from those days carry memories that don't fade. They were the good old days, and Jeff was a big part of what made them good. Over the years, many faces have come and gone, and not everyone had the privilege of knowing Jeff before he became Mayor Walik. But those who did know him then understood the kind of man he truly was - dedicated, proud of this village, and always willing to give everything he had for the people of Stickney. To the Stickney Police Department, to the Village of Stickney, and to all who had the honor of knowing and working alongside Jeff - our deepest sympathies go out to you during this difficult time. Rest easy, Jeff. Stickney was better because of you."

The Berwyn Police Department said:

"The Berwyn Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and residents of Stickney on the passing of Mayor Jeff Walik. Before serving as Mayor, Jeff Walik proudly served as a Stickney Police Officer, dedicating his life to public service and to the community he cared so deeply about. His commitment to protecting and uplifting the Village of Stickney left a lasting impact on countless lives. Today, we join our neighboring community in mourning the loss of a respected leader, former officer, and public servant. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved him during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Mayor Walik. Your service and legacy will not be forgotten."