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Michael Viollt Obituary

Michael Patrick Viollt, age 70, of Wilmette, beloved husband to Kathleen Viollt nee Tyrrell, loving father to Jason, Sarah (Kevin) Roche and Anne (Trevor) Barnum, adoring Gpop of Shane Michael, Nolan Jack and Connor James, dear brother of Emilie, Adele (John), Daniel (JoAnne), Gregory, the late Jack, the late Kenneth (Kathleen) and the late James, fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Emily and John. Michael enjoyed golf, cooking, water color painting, the beauty of Lake Michigan, Notre Dame football, and his beloved Chicago White Sox. Michael was the president of Robert Morris University where he worked for over 40 years. He was regarded as a visionary in higher education. He viewed his life work as a mission to serve as a role model not only to his students but to everyone he worked with. Michael courageously battled cancer for 14 years. He received the incredible gift of life from a stranger who donated his stem cells in 2017 and allowed Michael to dance at the weddings of both of his daughters and see the births of his three grandchildren. He will be remembered for his loyal friendship to many, his endless love for his family, his steadfast devotion to his wife and as a hero to his children. Visitation Monday, August 23, 2021, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Donnellan Family Funeral Home, 10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077. Funeral Mass, Tuesday, August 24, 2021 11:00 am at Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish, 1747 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to, Be the Match Foundation.

Info: donnellanfuneral.com or (847)675-1990.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Aug. 22, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Viollt

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Michael John Sukowski

August 17, 2025

My classmates and colleagues would tease me and say my mantra should be "I want to be like Mike". I always tried to follow his example.

Sharon Winkelman

August 16, 2025

Mike was a younger cousin of mine. I spent many good times as a young child at Aunt Em &!Uncle Jack´s home. As we grew up, I admired him from afar! He reached for the stars and found them here on earth! He can now enjoy them up close! RIP

Karen LeVeque

August 31, 2021

Just learned of the loss of Mr. Viollt. Thoughts and prayers to Kathy and family. He was a wonderful man and such a charismatic leader. He will always have a special place in my heart for his confidence in me and RMU memories.

Theresa and David Snyder

August 25, 2021

Thinking of you and your family at this time.
Sending blessings and peace.

Joan D.

August 24, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Viollts passing.
I had the privilege of getting to know him a bit during his brave battle with cancer.
He was always generous, kind, wise and patient throughout his many appointments with healthcare.
Although I didn´t know him well, I know he continued to help those in need, even when he was suffering.
He was truly "a prince among men".
My condolences to his wife and children during this time.
Joan D.

Hetal Patel

August 23, 2021

My deepest condolences to the Viollt Family! Mr. Viollt was amazing to learn and work with my almost 10 years at RMU. My prayers and thoughts are with you Mrs. Viollt and his daughters.

Monica Bulmann

August 23, 2021

I was a student and employee under President Viollt for over 10 years. I'll always remember he would call me "Mo." He was a great leader who always made sure we took pride in our College/University. He will be missed.

Angelica Castaneda

August 23, 2021

My sincere condolences to all of the family. I worked with Mike at RMU for about 15 years and it was such an honor. He was such an inspirational leader! Rest in peace Mike. God bless the family.

Terry A. Takash

August 23, 2021

I never had the fortune to meet Mike. Yet, through countless accounts from his close friend/my brother, I understand that his friendship, vision and generosity were only exceeded by his loyalty. Through these accounts I am sure that he will be missed by many.

Denise Gray

August 22, 2021

Your leadership made a difference in the lives of
RMU employees. My prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May God Bless You!

Chao Xiong

August 21, 2021

Thank you for your leadership. I'm going to miss our golf talk.

Wayne and Sharon Winkelman

August 21, 2021

Mike was a younger cousin that we cousins looked up to . His manner was always quiet and unassuming but we knew he was going places and "that" he did! I was always proud of him - both as a child and as the President of Robert Morris College! May his memories comfort all who knew him! RIP

Michael Sukowski

August 21, 2021

Thank you for your leadership and inspiration.

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Memorial Events
for Michael Viollt

Aug

23

Visitation

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

Donnellan Family Funeral Services

10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077

Aug

24

Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish

1747 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, IL

Funeral services provided by:

Donnellan Family Funeral Services

10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077

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