Peter Sikora

Estate Planning Paralegal

Favorite Quote:
“It's not enough that we do our best - sometimes we have to do what is required. ”
         

Peter is a seasoned professional who brings his heritage, his wit, his patriotism, and his zest for life to his role as an estate planner. The work that he does may sound boring to an outsider, but Peter works to capture the human drama of each client family. It is common for our clients to share with him their pain and struggles. Peter is a craftsman who is motivated to strive for excellence.

Some of his favorite moments in life revolve around his family. His parents were Polish refugees who came to the United States after WWII. As an immigrant youth who quickly learned English, he found himself serving as both a language and cultural interpreter for his parents. He had to take on an adult's responsibilities while still a youth.

Today, he especially cherishes his spouse, Sheila, and their only child, Justin. "Marrying Sheila was the best decision that I ever made," he shared. Their son, Justin, is attending graduate school in Germany which makes his parents happy and yet causes them to yearn to have him closer. "What makes us the most proud of our son is that he is a genuinely decent and nice human being who truly cares about others."

Peter's mother was a model of unconditional love "and so much more." She was one of the most influential persons in his life. He also believes that growing up in the USA as an immigrant has made him truly appreciate the greatness of this country. On the flip side, it really bugs him when others are not grateful for what the U.S. makes available to us.

Peter's Favorites are varied:

• Thanksgiving-great food, family, TV football, and "a killer scrabble game" after dessert. On top of that, "you don't have to buy any gifts for that holiday-life just doesn't get any better."
  
• History-if it smells of history, he loves it!
  
• The Civil War-both battlefields and re-enactments.
  
• Travel-especially to Poland and France.

Affiliations and Activities

• Intake interview volunteer, Center for Disability and ElderLaw
• Member, Illinois Paralegal Association
• ESL Tutor, Literacy Volunteers - Fox Valley
• Volunteer, St. Charles Heritage Center
• Webmaster, Batter G, 2nd Illinois Light Artillery, American Civil War Living Hisory Group

Education

• B.A. in psychology, University of Illinois
• Graduate studies in psychology, Roosevelt University
• Paralegal certificate, Elgin Community College