The Irish Fellowship Club, IFC, has long been a cornerstone of Chicago’s Irish community, promoting friendship, fellowship, and tradition. This year, Jim Coyne, the current president of the IFC, will host the President’s Christmas Luncheon on December 6th—a signature event celebrating the club’s enduring legacy and its vital role in maintaining Irish culture in the city.
Jim’s roots trace back to Mayo, Ireland, where his family’s heritage shaped his values and deep commitment to community engagement. Now residing in Western Springs, he continues to honor that legacy through his active involvement in the Irish Fellowship Club. For Jim, engagement is not just about forming personal connections—it’s about fostering a strong sense of community where Irish traditions and culture can flourish. He believes that through active participation, members can help sustain the club’s mission and ensure its relevance for future generations, keeping the spirit of the Irish community in Chicago alive and vibrant.
Outside of his involvement with the IFC, Jim has built an impressive career in the plumbing industry. With 47 years of experience, he spent 24 years working in the field before transitioning to a full-time officer role in 2000. In 2012, he became the Business Manager of Plumbers Local 130 UA, the largest straight-line plumbers local in the UA, where he continues to demonstrate strong leadership and expertise. Jim credits much of his success to his wife, Michele, who he describes as his best friend, and the wind beneath his wings. He often says he is living proof that behind every good man is a better woman.
Jim’s journey to the presidency was strongly influenced by the guidance and encouragement of key club members, including Marty Healy, John Griffin, Austin Kelly, and the late Red Dwyer. Marty, Austin, and John all served as former IFC presidents, with Marty and John also holding the distinguished honor of serving as Grand Marshals of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Dwyer was the only plumber among them and a proud member of Plumbers Local 130 UA. leading the Local 130 and IFC, Jim credits their mentorship as instrumental in shaping his leadership within his life.
Jim views the presidency as an opportunity to promote Irish tradition and culture through active engagement. Jim is dedicated to keeping the club’s mission relevant, whether working with the Irish American Heritage Center, Gaelic Park, or collaborating with the Consulate General’s office, like with former Consul General Kevin Byrne, the 2022 parade's Guest of Honor. Reflecting on the IFC’s long history, Jim shared, “The overall longevity of the club is remarkable. Great generations of Irish men and women continue to step into leadership roles, ensuring its legacy endures.”
Under Jim's leadership, the IFC has reached new heights of success. The St. Patrick's Day Dinner, co-chaired by Devin Bruce and Pat Clair, with Jim serving as President, saw the highest attendance in the club's history and raised more funds than ever before. Similarly, the sold-out Christmas Luncheon, led by Local 150 Operators and Business Manager Jim Sweeney, set another fundraising record, surpassing all previous years’ contributions for this year’s President’s Luncheon. These milestones, according to Jim, are a testament to the power of engagement. “Volunteering is about doing something right for the things you believe in—it’s very rewarding,” he shared.
One of Jim’s favorite memories from his time with the IFC was last year’s Board visit to Boston, where they were hosted by Chris and Sheila Kennedy in their home. The Kennedys were an integral part of last year’s parade, as the Kennedy Forum was the guest of honor at the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The theme of the parade, "Mental Health is Essential," highlighted their ongoing advocacy for mental health awareness. The club was honored with an invitation to the Kennedys' home, where Chris and Sheila hosted a barbecue in their backyard. “We were able to enjoy the incredible hospitality of the Kennedy family. Kudos to Chris and Sheila for opening their home to the Irish Fellowship Club,” Jim said.
For anyone considering joining or supporting the IFC, Jim offers a simple message: “If you haven’t already embraced your heritage, this is a great club to be a part of. There are folks from all walks of life involved, supporting a meaningful message that has withstood the test of time. You get out what you put in.”
When asked to describe the Irish Fellowship Club in three words, Jim chose friendship, fellowship, and tradition. These values not only define the IFC but also reflect Jim Coyne’s vision as a leader committed to ensuring the club continues to thrive for generations to come.
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