Michael Francis Anthony

Michael Francis Anthony, known to all as Mike, passed away on September 7, 2023, in his beloved hometown of Chicago, Illinois, at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom.

In the grand tapestry of Mike's life, family was always at the heart. His loving wife, Liz Burke, was his steadfast partner in life's journey, while his children, Erin Anthony David (Neil), Connor, Ian, Madeline Shea, McKenzie, and stepson, Michael Sineni, were the stars in his constellation. His mother, Margaret Shea Anthony, and father, Rudolph Anthony, predeceased him, while his brothers, James (Linda) and Thomas (Cheryl), remain to honor his memory, accompanied by a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Mike's intellectual journey began at Mendel High School, Chicago, followed by Xavier University, Cincinnati, where he earned both BS and MHA degrees. He further pursued his thirst for knowledge at the University of Baltimore, earning a JD, thus paving the way for his illustrious career.

His professional life was a testament to his incredible drive and dedication. Mike served as the former Head of the International Health Law Department at McDermott Will & Emery and the former Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs at the American Hospital Association. Mike also served in leadership at the American Health Law Association, where he was a past President, Board Member, and Senior Fellow. His professional career began at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore as the former Administrator of the Henry Phipps Psychiatric Clinic. His service extended to the Board of The Gateway Foundation and various alumni and community organizations.

Mike possessed a spirit that was as expansive as it was warm. He was devoted to his family. His passion for travel experiences, art, music, and theater was infectious. A mentor to many junior colleagues, family, and friends, he was a living example of his maxim, "Always do your best." He was a beacon of laughter in any gathering, a wellspring of loving affection, and a wise sage in every sense.

To quote Robert Frost, "In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on." As we mourn Mike's passing, we remember his life with joy, for he lived with an unyielding optimism and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people. His words, his laughter, and his wisdom will echo in our hearts, reminding us that life, indeed, goes on, and that the best way to honor his memory is to live our lives with the same love, laughter, and wisdom he so generously shared with us.

Services to celebrate Mike's life will be held at Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church, located at 700 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60661, on Friday, October 6. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Wounded Warriors Project in memory of Mike. Your contributions will support wounded veterans and their families during their time of need.

In saying farewell, we will remember Michael Francis Anthony as a loving father and husband, a mentor, and a friend, whose life was a testament to the power of love, the joy of learning, and the beauty of laughter. In the words of the Bard himself, "All's well that ends well." And so it was with his life. Mike lived well, loved well, and left a legacy of laughter, love, and wisdom that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Farewell, Mike. Your performance was, indeed, well played.