Michael Anthony Gniady

Born on January 2, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Michael lived a life defined by service to country, community, and family. A few months after his 18th birthday, he volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War with the historic 1st Infantry Division, “The Big Red One,” where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage under intense combat conditions. During his military service, he earned several commendations, including the Combat Infantryman Badge, and received a battlefield promotion to Sergeant after serving as a Track Commander leading an armored cavalry platoon.

After returning home, Michael married the love of his life, his “Little Girl,” Kathleen, and began a distinguished career with the Chicago Police Department (CPD). He served for more than 30 years as a police officer and member of the CPD Special Operations Group, bravely and selflessly protecting the streets of Chicago.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Bernadette and Anthony Gniady, and by his brother, James “Jimmy” Gniady.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Ann Gniady; his son, Michael John Gniady (Anna Marie Gniady); his daughter, Kristin Ruth Fox (formerly married to Eric David Fox; spouse Miguel Angel de los Rios); his sister, Patricia Bernadette Smentek (Dennis Leo Smentek) and his cherished grandchildren, Anthony Joseph Gniady, Jacob Michael Gniady, Kathryn Victoria Fox, Avery Elizabeth Fox, Michael David Fox, Kieran de los Rios, and Alex de los Rios. He is also survived by his longtime CPD partner, Patrick Camden; and his beloved cat, Gerry, whom he adored.

Michael is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Michael will be remembered for strength, discipline, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to family and to all those he served throughout life. In retirement, he enjoyed fishing, cooking and barbequing, studying the Vietnam War, listening to music, and spending quality time with family. Michael was a passionate sports fan, a lifelong and devoted White Sox supporter, and loved attending games while growing up in Chicago.

At his core, Michael had a passionate heart and contagious energy. He loved connecting with people, and the relationships he built will live on through the spirit of family and friends, as well as through his writings and poems.

Funeral services will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on July 17th, 2026 with a luncheon to follow. Please contact the family for more details.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, those wishing to honor Michael’s memory may donate directly to Forbidden Fruit Company. One hundred percent of donations will go directly to The American Heart Association. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary medical professionals who cared for Michael throughout the years, providing compassionate support as he faced long-term health challenges associated with his service in Vietnam.

Please email the family if you wish to receive a complimentary e-copy of Michael’s book, Warrior Poet—a compilation of 241 letters home from Vietnam and love poems written to Kathleen over the course of his life.