Michael Francis McIntyre

of Arlington Heights

Selfless, kind, and caring Michael Francis McIntyre passed away on December 12, 2023 after his battle with BPDCN (blood cancer).

Mike was born in Chicago, IL on September 2, 1952, to Gerald and Eileen McIntyre. Mike spent his formative years growing up in the Portage Park neighborhood on Chicago's northwest side. After moving to Arlington Heights, Mike was part of the first graduating class at John Hersey High School in 1970.

After graduation, Mike enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Mike was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps after serving as an MP and rising to the rank of Lance Corporal. After the Marine Corps, Mike joined the Arlington Heights Police department on July 7, 1975. On July 3, 1988, Mike was promoted to sergeant where he served the rest of his career until he retired on July 11, 2004. All in all, Mike served his community as an Arlington Heights police officer for 29 years. After retiring from the police force, Mike transferred his aptitude to the Village of Arlington Heights in the Building Department as a code enforcement officer for the next decade before retiring permanently. During this time, Mike was determined to obtain his college degree to set an example for his children, as he always did; Mike graduated with a bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University. Mike's accomplishments are extremely impressive on their own, and he did this all in spite of being afflicted with a very rare blood condition: Thrombocytopenia. Like any other obstacle Mike encountered, he conquered that as well.

Mike continued to stay connected to his beloved community that he served for so many years. Mike was an avid golfer and a valued member of the Village Golf League at Arlington Lakes Golf Club where his friendships continued with many of his former colleagues and blossomed with new friends. Mike was also a cherished member of the Arlington Heights American Legion for over a decade. Mike was affectionately known as Big Mac to many of his companions. Big Mac was more than just a friend to this wide circle. He was a trusted mentor and confidant.

Those that knew Mike were quick to realize his love and devotion to his family. There was nothing more important to him. Mike celebrated his time with his family, taking every opportunity to revel in their company. Mike was the most dependable person that ever existed. To be close to Mike was to know that you always had someone you could count on.

Mike was a doting father and grandfather, serving as the patriarch to the McIntyre clan. His children, grandchildren, in-laws, and extended family viewed him as the epitome of love. This was evident in his affection for his wife Cindy. Mike's adulation for Cindy was heart-warming and exemplary. They deeply enjoyed life together. Whether in Arlington Heights, Las Vegas, Galena, or Europe, Mike and Cindy created a life of love and admiration for each other and their families.

Mike is survived by his soul-mate and wife of 44 years, Cynthia "Cindy"; his beloved children Michael Gerald McIntyre (wife Celina), Megan Brownley (husband Wally), Kelly Benton (husband Andrew), and Brian McIntyre; proud Papa Mac to his adored grandchildren Brianna, Patrick, Matthew, Wally, Joey, Riley, and baby Benton. He is also survived by his loving sister and best friend, Colleen Kelly.

Mike is predeceased by his parents Gerald and Eileen and his brothers Tom and Jim.

Funeral Mass 10:00 am Friday, December 22, 2023 at St. Edna Catholic Church, 2525 N. Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Visitation from 9:00 am. Interment private.

Memorial contributions may be given to Be the Match, https://wesavelives.bethematch.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.team&teamID=6559 or to Shriner's Hospital for Children, PO Box 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394, https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/give/119312/#!/donation/checkout.