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Michael Bryant Obituary

Glen Ellyn - Michael Leahy Bryant, age 69, was born to eternal life, surrounded by family and friends, on April 18, 2019. Mike is survived by his wife of 43 years Ursula (Heiss), two children: Dr. Gretchen (William) Sanford of Glen Ellyn and Shane of Chicago. Also surviving Mike are his cherished mother Maureen Bryant of Aurora and siblings Susan Bryant(Larry Fox), Sandie (Tom) Gibbs, Patrick (Debbie) Bryant, Mary (Chuck) Lowry, Fred(Diane) Bryant, John(Theresa) Bryant, Jay (Janet) Bryant, Molly Bryant, David Bryant, and Mark (Heather) Bryant. Mr. Bryant also leaves behind the pride and joy of his retirement years in three grandchildren, Clare, Maeve, and Finnegan Sanford. Michael also loved his many nieces and nephews scattered throughout various parts of the country. He was preceded in death by his father Fred and nephews Brian, Kevin, and Sean.Michael was a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, committing to service as a Recon Marine in the United States Marine Corps. Those that knew him well would attest he lived a disciplined and selfless life always putting the needs and well being of others before his own. Michael advanced to leadership in his professional career by way of a thorough and well ordered work ethic. He retired as Chief Financial Officer of EGS Electrical Group in Rosemont at the age of 62 in 2011. He was as proud of a father as one can be and forever found at the side of his supportive and steadfast wife Ursula. Upon retirement Mike poured his heart into his grandchildren, enjoyed time playing gin rummy and golfing with son and friends at Glen Oak Country Club. Among Michael's routine tasks were bringing treats from the farmers market to his mom and daughter on Saturdays, snowblowing his neighbors driveway, making dinner for PADS, loving those on the margins, grilling burgers over a charcoal flame and supporting various charities.Michael was guided by his trust in positivity, unflinchingly facing the adversity of three separate battles with cancer only to succumb to heart failure. As was stated at his bedside, "he has no more heart for himself after always giving it away to others".There will be a memorial gathering on Monday, April 22 from 4 - 8 PM at Leonard Memorial Home (565 Duane St, Glen Ellyn IL 60137). There will be a memorial mass on Tuesday, April 23 at 2 PM at Old St. Pat's Church (700 W Adams Street, Chicago IL 60661).In lieu of flower donations, please make donations to Misericordia (https://www.misericordia.com), Two Hawks Foundation (http://www.twohawksfoundation.org), or Midwest Shelter for Homeless Vets (http://helpaveteran.org).

Published by Chicago Tribune on Apr. 20, 2019.
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Bryant

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Joni and I just learned of Mike's passing today -May 2nd . I worked closely with Mike at EGS in his final years and respected and loved him. I just retired myself last year. Ursula, we know this must be hard for you and pray that God lay His healing hand on your sweet heart and those of your entire family. God Bless Mike, he was a special man and am certain he is a welcome addition to God's heavenly house of many rooms.

John & Joni Peterson

May 3, 2019

Michael worked at EGS (where I work); very pleasant & respectable man... ...May God rest his soul..my prayers to his family..

Al Izadi

May 2, 2019

Michael and Shane were always a joy to see, in my days at Glen Oak. So sorry for your loss. Father and son love was an example to me in my life, and I know to many other fathers there. RIP in Mike!

terry carlson

Friend

April 26, 2019

I knew Mike and Ursy years ago....the Bryant family, you'll never meet a family who loved and cared about each other that laughed, and made you feel like you were one of there own. I was lucky enough to be apart of that awesome family for a time, Mrs. Bryant was one of the finest persons to have known and loved . God Bless you guys Love

Jill Wagner

April 23, 2019

Our deepest sympathies to your entire family. Much love from all of us

Amy and Jim Kane

April 23, 2019

My deepest sympathy to the entire Bryant family - especially Ursula, Mary, and Molly.
My memories of Mike and all the Bryant boys are from hanging out with Mary (when we were in high school) at your Lake Street home.
May all your fond memories sustain you during this time of grief.

Diane (Nagel) Lange

April 23, 2019

Deepest condolences and love to you, Ursula. May God bless Mike's soul.

Denise Kluwe

April 22, 2019

Mike and Urs were beyond kind when I was traveling back and forth to Chicago through my own sister, Jennifer's illness and passing 9 years ago. I will never forget! So many fond memories of this amazing man, he will be sorely missed by so many. Deepest condolences Bryant family!
Sam Johnson

Sam Johnson

April 22, 2019

a loved one

April 22, 2019

Mike was such a selfless person. He always made sure everyone was taken of before him. We'll miss his humor & positive attitude.

Sandie Gibbs

April 20, 2019

Loved you as a brother. Michael. Appreciated yout generosity and hospitality. I admire your beautiful family and will cherish fond memories of you always.

Pat Ferguson Hanson

Family

April 20, 2019

May the bereaved family be comforted by looking forward to Jesus' promise of seeing your dear loved one again. John 6:40.

A. L.

April 20, 2019

We send prayers to the whole Bryant family, with gratitude for Mike's brave, warm and selfless life. May you feel God's faithful constant presence in these sad and trying times, as well as the love pouring in from all over the world.

Jean and Jim Peters

April 20, 2019

I express my deepest condolences at this time of sorrow. I pray for your strength as each day passes. Continue to reflect on the memories that brought so much joy. Seek refuge in the God of all comfort and he will sustain you.

R.D.

Birmingham, AL

April 20, 2019

I am sorry for your loss .May the God of all comfort be with the family during this difficult time .

C.B.

April 20, 2019

I am sorry for your loss. Please take comfort in Psalms 29:11, knowing that in difficult times like this God gives peace and strength. DM

April 20, 2019

Our sympathy and special prayers for Mike and all his family and friends.

The Sisters and Residents of Misericordia

April 20, 2019

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Memorial Events
for Michael Bryant

Apr

22

Memorial Gathering

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Leonard Memorial Funeral Home & Cremations - Glen Ellyn

565 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Apr

23

Memorial Mass

2:00 p.m.

Old St. Pat's Church

700 W Adams Street, Chicago , IL 60137

Funeral services provided by:

Leonard Memorial Funeral Home & Cremations - Glen Ellyn

565 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

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