Harry Michael Pitcher

February 13, 1970 – December 30, 2020

Harry Michael Pitcher was born on February 13, 1970 to his parents Gordon & Nancy (Owens) Pitcher in Oak Lawn, IL. Harry passed away after a long, yet courageous battle with cancer, on the afternoon of December 30, 2020, in his home surrounded by his partner and family. Harry’s loved ones found solace in the fact that he could be in his home, surrounded by love, old movies, 80’s sitcoms, and the most eclectic music playlists that only Harry could build.

Harry met his life partner in the fall of 2016, Terry Criswell, who stood by Harry’s side with steadfast love and unshakable perseverance through Harry’s battle with cancer. Terry survives Harry. Terry is committed to living the love they shared, keeping Harry’s memory alive, and watching the shows and concerts that made them laugh and love.

Harry is also survived by his parents, 4 siblings, Gordon Jr (Roseanne) Pitcher, Kenny (Andrea) Pitcher, Karen (Greg) Cooke Pitcher, and Steve Pitcher. Harry is also survived by 8 nieces & nephews and 3 great nieces & nephews that proudly called him Uncle. Harry is also survived by many cousins, whom he loved and stayed in touch with over the years, many sharing amazing memories with their cousin at concerts, shows, or intimate dinners in Chicago and abroad. Harry was preceded in death by his grandparents on both sides.

Harry moved into the city of Chicago in 1999, and brought his intense love for life and for people right with him. After growing up in the suburbs of Chicago with his loving family, Harry spread his wings, graduated from the Art Institute of Chicago and began his long career at H. M. Witt in Chicago. After many loyal years at H. M. Witt, Harry took his artistic skills and ability to work for the City of Chicago at O’Hare International Airport as a sign painter, where he remained professionally until his passing.

After moving to Chicago, Harry met some friends that still survive him, that called him family and built 20 years of memories with him as the best friend anyone could possibly have. Harry enjoyed playing sports in CMSA, volleyball & tennis mainly, and was often found supporting his friends at different sporting games, leagues, and matches. Harry continued his amazing art skills by sharing them with family and friends, often gifting portraits, paintings, personalized photos – a form of art, a true gift of himself - to those he loved. Harry joined a weekend art painting club and could often be found painting around the city on the weekends, with his 200 year old IPod, that had every type of song known to the human ear, Harry loved art & music more than most.

Harry was truly a lover of life and people, one of the most sincere people to be known. Harry was the one that kept in touch with all the extended family, was the glue to his circle of friends, and loved having a quiet evening catching up with friends, families, and even strangers, although Harry never met a stranger. Harry would often say, “I can’t help it, that’s the Nanc in me, she taught us to care about people, truly care!” In the end, Harry and Terry got to do some much longed for travel together, taking their last trip surrounded with Harry’s closest friends, to Palm Springs in February 2020, to celebrate Harry’s 50th birthday.

So many, throughout his WHOLE life were touched by the genuine care that Harry gave to those around him. Harry was often the one in the corner talking to family, friends, new friends – genuinely discussing their life, their interests, and cared about the person he was talking to more than himself. It is with pride and comfort, that Terry and the family have had so much love and support poured out, often people saying, “There will never be another Harry – he truly cared about all of us in his life.” In the later days of his battle, Harry’s love was given back in the number of family, friends, co-workers that took the time, shared the love back with Harry during visits and calls while he battled in hospice. Terry and the family would like to extend much gratitude and deep thanks for all the messages, photos, and acts of support. To know the love Harry shared with so many has now been given back to the family, it truly has provided a lot of comfort and smiles during tough times!

Terry and the family will be sharing information for donations in Harry’s memory closer to the time of the celebration of life for Harry. The hope is to assure Harry’s memory is carried on through his passions, interests, and love in the form of donations in his honor.

Terry and Harry’s family will be holding a celebration of life in the spring, in hopes to bring everyone together safely, to celebrate the love, laughs, memories, and stories of our dear Harry. At this time, stories, art work, memories will be shared with all, and Harry’s love for life will come alive through all of us all, once again.