Giving Back to St. Daniel the Prophet Through the Generation to Generation Campaign

After an extraordinary 48-year career in Catholic education—29 years teaching and 19 years serving as principal at SS. Cyril and Methodius School—Shirley Tkachuk officially retired at the end of the 2024–25 school year. But retirement has not slowed her heart for service.

A lifelong parishioner of St. Daniel the Prophet, Tkachuk has lived in the same home her parents built the year before she was born. It was at St. Daniel where she was baptized, received all her sacraments, and attended school. “I received the very best education from St. Daniel the Prophet, and it formed me into the person I am now,” she reflected. “I had opportunities to work in public schools, but I would have been missing the spiritual piece. And the spiritual piece is everything—it got me through losing my husband, through everything.”

That faith guides Tkachuk both inside and outside the classroom. After her husband died 10 years ago, she felt called to deepen her involvement at St. Daniel, where she serves as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and assists with baptisms. “A strong faith and faith development make such a difference in your life,” she said.

In retirement, Tkachuk also found a new joy working part-time with the Chicago Cubs as a Premier Ambassador. A devoted Cubs fan for more than 60 years, she greets guests into the executive clubs and suites at Wrigley Field, blending her love of baseball with her passion for connecting with people. “This role has given me something extra in retirement,” Tkachuk said. “When you are surrounded by community, you’re not alone—and that’s true at Wrigley and at St. Daniel.”

Tkachuk’s deep commitment to her parish makes her a natural fit for the Generation to Generation Campaign. When her pastor invited her, she eagerly said yes. “Because of the way I feel about the parish and my faith, I would do anything they asked me to do,” she explained. She now calls, meets with parishioners, and helps share the campaign’s vision.

Her experience as an educator and principal shapes the way she connects with fellow parishioners. “I spoke with parents all the time. You let your heart lead when telling people why this is so important,” she said. She encourages parishioners to take time, pray, and consider how they can participate. “You cannot put a price tag on the benefit of having your faith be strong. Faith is such a comfort, such a big part of my life, and it could be the same for them.”

For Tkachuk, the Generation to Generation Campaign addresses immediate needs and ensures that her beloved parish stays vibrant for years to come. “I want to see St. Daniel continue as a thriving, vibrant parish well after I am gone,” she said. “I hope the next generation inherits a commitment and a love of their faith. Faith might not make the bad go away, but it’s going to get you through it.”

As she continues lending her voice and energy to the campaign, Tkachuk remains deeply grateful for all that St. Daniel has given her. “I can’t say enough about my love for the parish,” she shared. “Things change at the parish over time and that’s okay, because we all change. Life is about change—learn about it, embrace it, and help it keep going.”

Through her faith, her example, and her leadership, Tkachuk helps St. Daniel the Prophet Parish thrive from generation to generation.