Michael J. Cecchi

Mike (56) of Shorewood, passed away suddenly at St. Joseph Hospital with his family at his side.

Beloved husband to Jeanne (nee May) for 32 years. Father to Eric and Andrew. Survived by parents, Robert and Kathleen (nee McBride) Cecchi; siblings, Scott (Shari) Cecchi and Victoria (Troy) Kohler; Brother-in-law to the late Steve (Jacquie) May, Carol (Tim) Vicic, and the late Janet (Brian) Baftiri; numerous adoring nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A graduate of Joliet Central (1980), Mike spent his entire life in the Joliet area. Employed by Lakeshore Beverage (21 years), and previously by First Midwest Bank, Crowther Sheet Metal, and Elens & Maichan, Local 265.

A lifelong Cubs fan, he never missed the chance to catch a game, and was even honored to throw out the first pitch at Wrigley Field for the Crosstown Classic. He enriched the lives of many young players and their families while coaching for St. Joe’s Baseball (16 years) and Titans Football (3 years).

Mike was anything but reserved. His ability to get along with anyone was unforgettable and no one left his presence a stranger. Family and friends always came first in his life, whether it be gathering with family to celebrate, golfing with his best friends, or jammin’ out with other music lovers. No matter what he was doing, he did it with a smile on his face and a joke to follow.

Because of his generous nature, Mike chose to become an organ donor. His family prays that his spirit lives on through the recipients and blesses their families with laughter and love. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike’s name may be made to giftofhope.org.

A celebration of Mike’s life will begin on Wednesday, November 7, 2018, with a memorial visitation at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Prayers will be held in the funeral home chapel on Thursday, November 8, 2018, at 10:20 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Joliet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 11:00 a.m. Per Mike’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.