Michael "Mike" C. McCann

Mike was the beloved husband of Elizabeth C. McCann, who preceded him in death in April 2017. A proud and loving father of Stuart C. McCann (Dee) and Paul H. McCann, and cherished grandfather of Hutson T. McCann and Lance M. McCann.

Born in Tupelo, Mississippi, he was the only child of William "Bill" and Stella McCann. The family eventually relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where Mike spent his formative years, including his early education at Georgia Military Academy.

A proud U.S. Marine, Mike rose to the rank of Buck Sergeant during his active years of service, which concluded in 1958. His southern upbringing along with his commitment to discipline, duty, and service shaped his identity as the quintessential southern gentleman.

Professionally, Mike had a distinguished career in marketing, helping to establish Frankel & Co. as one of Chicago’s leading marketing agencies with a global impact. He retired at 62 to pursue his lifelong passions—racing, travel, and time with family.

A competitive and passionate race car driver, Mike raced with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) for 24 years and remained active into his seventies. His love of speed was matched only by his love of the outdoors. Mike took part in over a dozen river rafting expeditions, first with friends and later with his wife. Together, they traveled the world, building a lifetime of memories, including travel with their children and grandchildren.

Mike and Elizabeth were also devoted patrons of the arts, holding annual memberships to the Goodman Theatre, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Their shared love for culture and creativity was a meaningful part of their life together and a legacy passed on to their family.

Mike was also deeply involved in his local community, serving as Assistant Scoutmaster for Arlington Heights Troop 333—sharing his adventurous spirit and leadership with the next generation. A very proud Papa, he was always there to support and encourage his grandsons, Hutson and Lance, as they chased and achieved their dreams in academics and competitive sports.

He was a devoted friend of Bill W. for 36 years, a relationship that brought strength and purpose to his life and to the lives of many others.

Mike’s legacy is one of adventure, integrity, humility, and above all, love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Join us to celebrate Mike’s life on Friday, August 22 from 3:30 to 8pm, at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, service at 6:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s honor to the Art Institute of Chicago https://www.artic.edu , Marine Corps Association https://www.mca-marines.org/ or Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) https://www.scouting.org/.

A private celebration of life and interment will be held by the family.