Doorperson of the Month: Mike Bekic, 209 E. Lake Shore Drive

Mike Bekic, head doorperson at 209 E. Lake Shore Drive, is proud to have served the building for more than two decades and achieved the American Dream.

Before immigrating to the U.S., Bekic and his family moved around Yugoslavia, Croatia and Bosnia, searching for a peaceful place to settle. In 1995, the family was delighted to finally arrive in America, where they found a new home in Lincolnwood.

Bekic speaks glowingly of being a U.S. citizen and the freedoms America offers, and he laughs as he explains, “My actual background is in mechanical engineering.”

He worked at a few other buildings before being hired at 209 E. Lake Shore Drive, where he has been employed for the past 21 years.

The Streeterville property dates back to 1929 and is nestled near the Drake Hotel, across the street from Oak Street Beach and right around the corner from Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile. Bekic said most residents at 209 E. Lake Shore Drive stay for the long haul and there’s little turnover, with many units being passed from family to family via inheritance.

During the pandemic, the building’s staff had to switch the elevators to automatic mode and forgo the usual elevator service, but otherwise it was business as usual. Deliveries and mail go straight to the residents’ doors, and vehicles are parked by a valet service.

Bekic said his strength lies in taking care of his residents’ needs, and he loves his job. It’s clear to see how much pride he has in the building and its residents, whom he refers to as “shareholders.”

“Everything possible is done to keep the shareholders happy,” he said.

In his spare time, Bekic enjoys playing the accordion with his friends.

To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@Chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be the doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.