The village of Stickney is reeling from the death of Mayor Jeff Walik, reported over the weekend and leaving a sudden vacancy at the top of Village Hall. Walik, a longtime local official and a familiar face at community events, had been leading the southwest Chicago suburb through a range of village initiatives. As of Monday morning, no family details or funeral plans had been publicly announced.
The mayor’s death was disclosed in a televised video segment, as reported by FOX 32 Chicago. The May 10, 2026 report did not list a cause of death and focused on early reaction from neighbors and local officials responding to the news.
Mayor’s record at Village Hall
Village of Stickney meeting packets and minutes document Walik’s role at the board table, where he presided over sessions, handled municipal business and oversaw everything from budgets to park programming. The records show him delivering mayor’s reports, signing approvals and serving as the village’s chief elected officer at recent meetings. According to Village of Stickney, he regularly led board discussions and played a central role in advancing municipal initiatives.
Out in the community
Outside the boardroom, Walik was a regular presence at village gatherings and festivals, where he often presented awards and greeted residents. At Stickney’s Old Tyme Family Day, he helped run the festivities and highlighted how much locals enjoyed the tradition. “We have some nice prizes and people really enjoy playing,” he told the Desplaines Valley News, underscoring his hands-on approach to community events. Organizers and neighbors described him as a steady promoter of village programs. As reported by Desplaines Valley News, Walik took a visible role in bringing residents together at festivals and family days.
Next steps for the mayor’s office
Under Illinois law, when a mayoral seat opens up midterm, the remaining village trustees generally have 60 days to appoint a replacement, unless circumstances require an interim or special election instead. The Illinois Municipal Code outlines how interim appointments are made and when a vacancy must go on the ballot. Stickney’s board is expected to follow those statutory procedures as it decides who will serve out the remainder of the term. The process is detailed in the Illinois Municipal Code.
As of Monday morning, May 11, 2026, the Village of Stickney’s public news page had not yet carried an official statement on Walik’s death. Residents looking for formal updates are being directed to the village’s online channels and upcoming board agendas for information on arrangements and the board’s plans for filling the vacancy. Local outlets, including FOX 32 Chicago, continue to follow the story as new details are released.
