Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Michael William Cassidy
Michael William Cassidy
Obituary
Guest Book
Michael Cassidy Obituary
November 18, 1951 - May 29, 2025
Michael William Cassidy, affectionately known as Mike, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida, at the age of 73.
Born on November 18, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, Mike built a life marked by dedication, leadership, and love for his family. With over 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he held numerous leadership roles, most recently serving as Vice President of Operations at Starwood Hotels & Resorts. He began his career at Hyatt, where he spent more than two decades and earned national recognition for his exceptional work and unwavering commitment to excellence. In the later years of his career, Mike was also proud to be a co-founder of Cassidy Hermany Hospitality Consulting, where he continued to share his expertise and passion for the industry.
Mike was a man of faith and a devoted Catholic. He found joy in life's simple pleasures-tennis, fishing, and music. A talented trumpet player in his youth, he carried a lifelong appreciation for music.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle Cassidy; his daughters, Katie Cassidy Neal and Mackenzie Cassidy; his son-in-law, Charles Neal; and his cherished granddaughters, Charlotte and Eloise. Mike's warmth, wisdom, and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Holy Name Catholic Church in Mike's memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mark Theis
June 23, 2025
I am so very sorry to have just heard the news. I never would have imagined... he was so young, and I can only think of him as full of life, humor, and energy.
Like so many, Mike was instrumental in my career growth - from encouraging me to move from San Francisco to Chicago, to joining the CVB, and later Starwood. He was a true leader: supportive, caring, and always helping others thrive in their roles. So many of us shined under his guidance.
My deepest sympathies go out to Michelle, Katie, and Mackenzie during this incredibly difficult time. Mike´s legacy - the deep impact he had on so many careers and lives - will live on. He will always be remembered as a vital part of so many people´s journeys and successes.
Kevin M. McNally, CMP
June 16, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Mike at the former Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers. He was a true professional whose dedication to the Hospitality & Meetings industry set a standard of excellence and integrity. His kindness, guidance, humor and passion will continue to inspire all of us who knew and worked with him. To family and friends, sharing thoughts and prayers. RIP.
Greg Jones
June 13, 2025
I still hear his voice saying, Jonesy how did we finish the month or Jonesy can I get a SAP report. Cassidy was such an inspiring person and fearless leader that you wanted nothing more than to be in his presence.
It didn´t matter what time of the evening the message came across the blackberry - my daughter would always intercept it and let me know daddy, Mr Cassidy needs you!
Mike will forever be remembered. God Bless Michelle, Katie, Mackenzie, Charlotte, Eloise and all of the Cassidy family.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Ed Walls
June 13, 2025
Mike was not only a great colleague and leader but also a great human being. He was thoughtful, kind, and a lot of fun to be with. He will certainly be missed.
Zandra Simm
June 13, 2025
So sorry to hear this heartbreaking news! Mike was such a great guy! We met at the tennis club and he and Michelle would come into my restaurant often! He will be missed dearly! Rest in Peace
Ken Rosenthal
June 13, 2025
RIP. I will always remember the times at the Westin Buckheaad. Taught me alot and I will remember.
KC Kavanagh
June 13, 2025
I worked with Mike for many years at Starwood. He showed me the ropes with kindness and humor. Just a world class guy. My condolences to his family who he talked about so often and with such joy and love.
Kevin Boland
June 13, 2025
Mike called me "Laddy" and used to come and sit in my office, ask one question, and then listen. What a great person. I remember on a trip to Washington, D.C., the hotel would not cash his check; it was a Starwood hotel. I got such a kick out of it. On the same trip, I took his Blackberry as we met clients, and he was so mad at me, but he took it in good stride. On a more personal note, he supported me, saw my potential, and pushed me. I will never forget his leadership.
I was so upset with the news of his passing. My thoughts go out to his family. May he rest in peace.
Peter cipkins
June 12, 2025
Mike had a lot of compassion and a big heart. He will be missed.
God blessed
Paul Davis
June 12, 2025
A very special man full of life, humor, compassion, empathy. I will never forget the mischievous sparkle in his eyes! You will be missed Mike. Condolences to the Cassidy family may he rest in Peace.
Curtis hicks
June 12, 2025
Rip my friend had a great time being your chef and all the management you taught me and the trips chef curtis hicld
Leon Young
June 12, 2025
Mike was always so very gracious and had a great mix of knowledge and experience that allowed him to deliver messages that, while setting expectation, were delivered with care and concern....-a lost art.
Stephanie Cross
June 12, 2025
I met Mike while I was working at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, but didn't have the honor of knowing him personally until he reached out to help him build his brand, Cassidy Hermany Hospitality Consulting. I will never forget how kind, caring and compassionate he was. I was just starting out in an industry that he mastered. He truly cared for people - and listened. It is true what they say, "People will forget what you said, but remember how you made them feel." Thank you, Mike, for giving me a business opportunity when I needed it most, and for the honor to support your business venture. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Carla Murray
June 12, 2025
Mike always brought knowledge, warmth and humor to each and every interaction. He was an inspiration to us all at Starwood. He will be so missed. Carla Murray
Dan culumber
June 12, 2025
Was shocked to hear about Mike. We met on the tennis court and can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed playing with Mike as my partner and getting to know each other. Actually my wife (Rose) and I ran into Mike at Taco Dive one night and we all ate and enjoyed each others company. I truly will miss Mike and send my sympathy to Michelle and family. We all have lost a great man and I´m thankful to have known Mike. Dan and Rose Culumber.
Jim Petrus
June 11, 2025
Had the pleasure of working with Mike at both Hyatt and Starwood. Mike was always the person that was able to put things in the right perspective. Fun to be around, great sense of humor, a real people person that was always there to applaud other people´s accomplishments. The world is a better place because of Mike Cassidy. RIP Mike... you left us way too soon.
Love to Michelle and family...our hearts ache during this time of loss.
Jim and Ann Petrus
Eric Danziger
June 11, 2025
Losing Mike has thrown the planet a bit out of balance. Not easily, if ever to be completely righted again. He was that kind of good!
I am reminded of the early days of Starwood. I liken it to the band of brothers. That band, particularly Mike created the platform to achieve amazing things. Mike had a profound impact on the people of the company in both the business of operating hotels...but how to do so with kindness and care for one another. I am so grateful that he was a part of the early voyage. Personally, Jenny and I were lucky to count Michelle and he as close friends in Chicago, Tiburon and then Vero Beach.
Deepest sympathy to Michelle and the family. May you find a bit of solace in knowing of the immense and everlasting imprint he left on legions of us.
The light down here is a bit dimmer today..but brighter inthe heavens.
Eric Danziger
Peter Labrie
June 11, 2025
Wonderful person with a warm personality. Always fun to be with on the tennis court. RIP in hands of our LORD.
Frank Lavey
June 11, 2025
Mike was a gift to all who knew him or were fortunate enough to be his friend. His endless wit and love of life will always be cherished.
Sending our love and blessings to Michelle, Katie, and Mackenzie. He will live forever in our hearts
The Lavey Family
Dana Durand
June 11, 2025
So many great adventures together I will always cherish
Geoff Ballotti
June 11, 2025
I walked by the House of Blues this morning prior to Mike´s visitation and Mass later today around the corner, and thought back on his taking the stage there to raucous encouragement and applause during one of our many sales kick-off celebrations here in Chicago. Few leaders possessed Mike´s infectious energy and compassion. Mike cared most about his people. And it always showed. We loved you Mike and will miss you dearly. God Bless Michelle, Katie, Mackenzie, Charlotte, Eloise and all of the Cassidy family. -Geoff Ballotti
Bill Coyle
June 10, 2025
I was very sorry to learn of Mike's passing. Although our paths at Starwood never really crossed on a daily basis, they crossed enough for me to come to realize that his deep passion for his profession was far eclipsed by his unwavering love and devotion to his family....I'm sure his faith in our lord will position him well as he looks down upon them in spirit......Rest in Peace Mike. Hope to see you on the other side.
Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results
Make a Donation
in Michael Cassidy's name
How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Michael Cassidy's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
