Michael McGee of Chicago, IL.
Michael McGee was born on October 19th, 1970, in Tarpon Springs Florida. He graduated from Tarpon Springs High School in 1988 and attended Florida State University where he earned a B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering. Michael attended John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois, where he was a staff editor for the John Marshall Law Review and earned his Juris Doctor, magna cum laude. He was a partner in the Cook Alex law firm in Chicago. Michael was a proud member and past president of The Windy City Seminoles Club.
Mike was not a man who hurt or ridiculed people, but rather one who made everyone feel special, loved, and appreciated. Although our hearts ache with the loss of such a wonderful person, knowing that Mike’s love for us will never die and will always be alive within each of us, helps ease the pain.
Mike’s zest for life, passion for family and friendship, and love for anything Garnet and Gold was contagious. One could not help but smile and laugh when in his presence. Mike saw the good in all of us. Despite our flaws and quirks, he loved us unconditionally and wanted everyone to enjoy one another. He was not selfish, judgmental, or arrogant, and the influence of his humble nature and fun-loving personality made us all better people.
Mike worked hard and played hard, never excluding anyone for any reason. There was never any question whether Mike would be at a party, celebration, or event…he would be there….game on! Mike was a devoted man…devoted to his wife, Stacey, his son, Hayden, and all of his family and friends. In trouble? Mike rescued you. Down? Mike picked you up. Achievements? Mike celebrated them with you. You could count on him, and he knew he could count on you.
Yes, Mike’s life was too short, and we were not afforded the opportunity to spend the amount of time with him we would have liked, but he was on this earth long enough to bring us together, help us grow, and teach us to look at the world through different lenses. Mike is a hero in many ways, and as we celebrate his life and accomplishments today and in the future, let’s not forget the many lessons he taught us. It is now our job, as Mike’s family and friends, to keep his memory alive. We have many outlets in which to do this and honor Mike for who he was. Whether it’s by cheering for the Cubs or the Noles, helping our friends and families, or giving back to our communities, Mike would be proud. As we continue throughout our daily lives and our own journeys on earth, we will remember Mike McGee, smile, and say, “Game on!”
This is Team McGee’s third year participating in the Chicago Get Your Rear in Gear. The first year a small group of dear friends the “PoP- Ups” took it upon themselves to run in Mike’s honor while he was recovering from his first surgery. The next year Mike walked hand in hand with his family and friends. Though he was on chemo he ran the fun run with his three year old son and walked the walk with wagon in tow. This year Team McGee is running in his memory …bigger and stronger than ever.
Michael is survived by his loving wife Anastasia (Stacey), his son, Hayden, parents, Mickey and Rozanne McGee, grandparents, Terry and John Harrison, sister, Terri Hogan, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, in-laws and friends. He will be remembered with love by the many whose lives he touched.