Eileen Kalikow

Eileen Kalikow, a beloved mother, sister, friend, and pillar of her community, passed away peacefully on July 27th surrounded by love. She was 78 years old.
Born in Savannah, Georgia, on May 11, 1947, Eileen was the eldest of five children - four girls and one boy - of Evelyn and Leon Goldberg. From an early age, she carried a strong sense of responsibility, a nurturing spirit, and a determination that would shape her life and relationships.
Eileen's life was a vibrant tapestry of community, creativity, and connection. Deeply involved in both the Portland and Cape Elizabeth communities, Eileen was known and loved by many. She had a way of making an impression - whether through her thoughtful gestures, her generosity, or her unmistakable presence. You could ask almost anyone in town, and chances are they knew Eileen. She was a familiar, welcoming face at community events, local shops, and neighborhood walks - often stopping to chat with everyone she passed.
She was a dedicated career counselor for over 35 years, so passionate about helping others find their path that she refused to retire. Her expertise was widely recognized, and she even served as an expert witness in cases across the world. She devoted herself to causes that mattered, serving on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including Shalom House and the Red Cross, where she was honored with awards for her service. She was a longtime and active member of three synagogues and gave countless hours volunteering in the synagogue gift shop during her daughter's childhood.
Her passions were as bold and beautiful as she was - from jewelry-making to gardening, from walking the beach to hosting unforgettable dinner parties. She had a gift for gathering people. Whether it was a spontaneous meal or a planned event, Eileen made space for everyone - often including plus-ones and newcomers at her table - ensuring no one felt left out. She took pride in caring for others, and her home was a warm, open place of food, conversation, and laughter.
Eileen was known for her charisma and her impeccable sense of style. She never went anywhere without being "put together," and often reminded her daughter: "Dress to impress, because you never know who you're going to meet." Whether it was a casual outing or a formal gathering, Eileen was often the best-dressed person in the room - her presence unmistakable and unforgettable.
Fiercely loyal, full of spirit and opinions, Eileen never did anything halfway. Her greatest pride and joy was becoming a mother. At age 45, she adopted her daughter, Sara Lily Kalikow, and poured her heart into raising her with love, strength, and unwavering devotion. Lily survives her as her only child.
Eileen is survived by her sisters, Sandi Kaufman (Michael) of New York City, and Irene Lichtenstein (Bobby) of Atlanta, as well as her brother-in-law, Harvey Blumenthal of Potomac, Maryland. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Laura Tobin, Michelle Abramowitz, Jamie Stackman, Scottie Lichtenstein, Daniel Kaufman, and Ben Kaufman. Eileen was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn and Leon Goldberg, and her siblings Harvey Goldberg and Susie Blumenthal. She now joins them in peace.
Eileen's absence leaves a deep ache in the lives of all who knew her, but her memory - bold, generous, funny, and fierce - will live on in every garden bloom, every shared meal, every story told by the many friends who became her chosen family. May Eileen's memory live on in the many lives she touched.
A service will be held at Bet Ha'am, 81 Westbrook Street, South Portland, ME 04106 at 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 29th. Burial will follow at Temple Beth El Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to return to Bet Ha'am for Shiva following the burial.