Michael "Mickey" Schwartz

Michael “Mickey” Schwartz, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Born in Chicago on April 8, 1935, to Al and Perle Schwartz, Mickey lived a life full of love, laughter, and legacy. On September 9, 1959, Mickey married the love of his life, Reva Kriv. Together, they built a beautiful life and celebrated 66 years of marriage, a testament to enduring love and partnership. Mickey was a devoted father to Karen (Allen Sutker), Billy (Amy), and Barry (Lana), and a proud grandfather to Dani (Mike Rovansek), Niki (Jordan Schwartz), Tommy (Jessie Sutker), Teddy (Alyssa Sutker), Hannah (Jake Melnick), Sophie (Doug Mack), Emma (Aryeh Wilens), Collin, and Mckenzie. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his great-grandchildren: Mason, Shaylee, Brooklyn, and Noah.

Mickey’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. He had a deep love for family, travel, nature, music and a good chocolate malt. He was an avid photographer, story-teller, and loved creative writing. He loved to make people laugh and feel good about themselves. A lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears, he famously served as both offensive and defensive coordinator for the Bears — in his own mind — and coined the unforgettable phrase, “Stick with the Mick, or get stuck in the muck.”

He graduated from Kilmer Grade School, Sullivan High School, and the University of Illinois, and he attended Northwestern Law School, laying the foundation for a life of leadership and service. He served 8 years in the Army Reserves achieving the rank of Captain. Mickey was the director of Camp Ojibwa for Boys in Eagle River, Wisconsin, which was founded by his father. Mickey became “Camp Dad” to thousands of campers over the years. His impact on the camp community was immeasurable, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he mentored and inspired. In addition to his role at Camp Ojibwa, Mickey ran his own insurance agency, balancing two full-time careers with grace and dedication. His work ethic was matched only by his love for his family, with whom he spent every moment he could.

Mickey Schwartz will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, integrity, humor, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty to those he worked with, loved, and trusted. His spirit will live on in the stories shared, the traditions continued (for all Ojibwa Campers - the eye is open), and all the lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation or Leukemia Research Foundation.

A memorial service for Michael will be held Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM at North Shore Congregation Israel, 1185 Sheridan Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022, followed by a shiva immediately following service.