Bolingbrook honors public safety employees, presents $15,000 to Special Olympics Illinois

The Village of Bolingbrook opened its Oct. 14 meeting with awards and a charitable presentation recognizing public safety and public-works employees and supporting Special Olympics Illinois.

VFW and American Legion representatives presented employee awards for 2025: Public Works Employee of the Year to Joseph Rocco Passarella (Electrician III); Firefighter Paramedic of the Year awards to Mark Lyman (VFW and American Legion lists) and Jacob Errington (40/8 Award); Police Officer of the Year recognitions included Jenna Swendsen and Marjorie Higens, and Nicholas Christopher was also named in American Legion citations. The awards were presented by VFW Commander Greg Palmer, American Legion Sr. Vice Commander Eric Morris and 40/8 presenter Thomas Mlynek.

Nick Seidel of Action Truck Parts presented a $15,000 check to Special Olympics Illinois on behalf of the Bolingbrook Police Department in recognition of the department’s partnership and sponsorship of numerous events.

Trustees and the mayor acknowledged the recipients and thanked Village staff and partners. The recognition and donation were accepted as part of the meeting's presentations; no board vote was required.