TRIBUTE TO JEAN A. BIKE
WHEREAS, In His infinite wisdom, God has granted eternal rest to Jean A. Bike, an outstanding citizen and member of her community, on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014; and
WHEREAS, Jean Bike started life in this city as the daughter of the late Agnes and Stanley Smolen on July 18, 1924, living most of her young life in the Bucktown/Wicker Park neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, At the age of 17, Jean Bike tragically lost her mother, Agnes Smolen, and became the homemaker for her three siblings and father. As an adult, she continued to serve as a homemaker while sustaining a full time job until both of her brothers were married; and
WHEREAS, Jean A. Bike married William F. Bike in 1954. Three years later, their union was blessed with a son, William S. Bike. Jean became a full time homemaker for William, quitting her career at Berteau-Lowell Plating Company. She took an active role in providing support for her son during his time attending St. Sylvester's School, serving as a Room Mother and President of the St. Sylvester School Mothers' Club during the 1960s. She was an active volunteer in the school's Fun Fair and rummage sales every year.
WHEREAS, Jean A. Bike continued to care for those around her for most of her life, being a caretaker for her mother-in-law, her father, her sister, and one of her brothers in their time of greatest need. She leaves behind, to celebrate a life well lived, her husband and son as well as several nieces and nephews and many close friends; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Robert W. Fioretti, Alderman ofthe 2nd Ward, has informed this august body of the transition of this caring woman; now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED That we, the Mayor and members ofthe City of Chicago City Council, gathered together on this 25th Day of June, 2014, do hereby express our sincerest sorrow upon learning of the passing of Jean A. Bike and extend our deepest sympathies to her family and all those whose lives she touched.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family of Jean A. Bike.