Timothy Michael Aylward, Jr. (Michael), 39, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on July 26, 2026. Michael was born the second child of Tim and Jane Aylward, in Kansas City, MO. He attended St. Elizabeth School and Rockhurst High School. Later, he attended the University of Missouri, where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta (Fiji).
Michael loved playing in the Brookside Roller Hockey league and later, ice hockey at Rockhurst. He enjoyed learning about cars, often fixing his parents’ and siblings’ cars, and he stayed consistently ahead of the curve in the latest tech advances. His greatest passion though, was taking care of those he loved — always thinking of how he could help them, make them laugh, and let them know he was thinking of them.
For many years, Michael worked in the restaurant industry, becoming a well-loved employee, bartender and manager at restaurants including Flat Branch and The Penguin in Columbia, Missouri, and The Brooksider, Charlie Hooper’s, Char Bar and Johnny’s Tavern in KC. He was passionate about food, and often made gourmet-style meals for his family and friends. He loved spending time with loved ones, playing with his niece and nephew, and his many godchildren.
Because of his heart condition, Type 1 diabetes, and chronic pancreatitis, Michael experienced extreme pain for more than 10 years. He bore his pain with humility and an abundance of grace. Maintaining his kindness towards others, and his strong sense of humor despite his health challenges, were his super power.
Michael is survived by his parents, Tim and Jane Aylward, sister Sarah Aylward, brother Matt Aylward (Casey), niece and nephew, and loving members of his family, and many friends.
A memorial service will be held August 8, at 11 a.m., at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 64145.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation toward curing Type 1 Diabetes. Suggested foundations include Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF), American Diabetes Association (ADA).
