Michael had a long career practicing law as a litigation attorney retiring first from Chapman and Cutler in Chicago and then again from Jones Day in Houston. He spent his retirement traveling with his wife visiting Antarctica, the Arctic circle to see the Northern Lights, and many countries in Europe, especially Italy. Mike took up the study of the Italian language and culture with vigor, particularly the culinary culture. He was a wonderful cook. In his earlier years, Mike was a runner. He became an avid cyclist, and in his later years, biked through the mountains to cross the Italian peninsula. In the winter months, he enjoyed skiing in the Colorado mountains.
Among thousands of happy memories, his children remember with love are the canoe and camping trips with son Scott and daughter Sarah in the rivers of Wisconsin. Michael reveled preparing Thanksgiving dinner with his daughter Amy. And with his son Mike, he enjoyed many fantastic bicycling adventures here at home and around Europe.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years Kristine Ford and his children Sarah (Charles), Scott (Francie), Amy, Michael B. (Renee), his grandson Benjamin, and his nephew Ryan (Lauren) and their daughter Zoe.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations under Mike’s name may be made to support Rush University Medical Center (rushgiving.com/giveweb) or to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Dearborn Ct., Geneva, IL 60134.
Family will be receiving guests on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. A Memorial Service will begin at 10:30 AM on Friday, April 10, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N Dunton Ave, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Interment will be private.
