Packes was king of 'Tigerdale'

To the editor:

(re: “Jimmy Packes — the general of Kingsdale Service Center,” Jan. 13)

We were pleased to see such a welcome write-up acknowledging the passing of the longstanding member of our local service community, Jimmy Packes.

He was a stalwart of the Packes family’s very large, classic 24-hour automobile service and repair location in the heart of our community — the West 230th Street site that now houses a TD Bank branch. They called the business “Tigerdale,” a nod to the community and its long history with Esso (Exxon), and its advertising mascot.

There are historical photos dating back to at least 1946.

Jimmy carried on the family tradition across the street at the Riverdale Auto Clinic to the end.

Although we knew Jimmy as a quiet man with a calm demeanor, his love for the community was unmistakable in his words and actions. He dedicated himself to the community that supported his small business, and he reciprocated with selfless generosity and kindness.

Jimmy was a key outstanding entrepreneur who inspired Community Board 8’s Most Valuable Merchant award — recently renamed the Betty Campbell-Adams Award.

We had begun our research into developing a nomination for Jimmy this year when we heard the sad news of his passing.

He was a warm and engaging person, a treasure trove of neighborhood lore, and was extremely proud of the business that his family established. Both of us were fortunate enough to spend some time with Jimmy — both personally and professionally — and we will cherish those moments.

We are glad that The Riverdale Press has published this lovely remembrance.

Nick Fazio
David Gellman

The authors are Community Board 8 members

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