Michael J. Cronin

Legendary Chicago policeman, Michael Cronin, passed away on November 9th, 2025, after a long illness. He was 81. Michael worked Chicago's West Side for 35 years when the West Side had one of the highest concentrated crime rates in the world. On the street he was feared and respected among the West Side Gangs as he was relentless and never gave up. He became a Gang Specialist, Commander-Gang Crimes unit and then Deputy Chief Gang Crimes and Narcotics. Post retirement Mayor Richard M. Daley appointed him to be a civilian advisor to the Gang and Narcotics units.

Michael was born on Chicago's North Side to Irish immigrant parents Michael and Mary Cronin. Growing up in St. Gertrude's Parish, there were kids everywhere and the kids called him "Sam". From an early age, he loved sports, especially football, and his determination and stubbornness made him tough on and off the field. In 1962, he earned a spot on the All-City Catholic Football Team. After high school, he continued playing football with the Monaco Colts and baseball with the Playboys. Like many of his friends, Michael dreamed of becoming a cop.

When his best friend, Jerry Hanrahan, was killed in Vietnam, Michael joined the Marines. Just three days before his 25th birthday, he stepped on a booby trap, which left him temporarily blinded and caused severe injuries to his left foot. Although he regained his sight, his left foot had to be amputated, and his dream of becoming a Chicago police officer was over.

At the urging of his friend Joe Mackey, who was serving on Mayor Richard J. Daley's security detail, Michael decided to take the written exam for the Chicago Police Department. He passed, and soon after, he completed the physical and agility tests. In 1971, he entered the Police Academy and went on to become one of the best policemen in Chicago. Known for his relentless dedication and skill, Michael earned 22 department commendations, 171 honorable mentions, and 25 letters of appreciation. His career was featured in a Chicago Tribune Magazine article displayed at the Police Academy and later became the subject of the book On the Street Doing Life: The West Side of Chicago Through the Eyes of a Cop Called Cronie by former Tribune reporter and dear friend Anne Keegan.

In retirement, Michael enjoyed riding his bike, playing pickleball and bocce ball, relaxing in northern Wisconsin and wintering in Florida.

He is survived by his sister, Joanne Michals; his brother, Jim (Karen) Cronin; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Mary Cronin; his brother, Dennis "Frank" (Juanita) Cronin; his sister, Mary (John) Meis; his brother-in-law, Dennis Michals; and his cherished friend, Pam Risley.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025 from 3:00-8:00 pm at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 6150 N. Cicero Ave, Chicago. Funeral Tuesday 9:00am from the funeral home to St. Gertrude Catholic Church, 1420 W. Granville Ave, Chicago for Mass at 10:00am. Interment All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, 1407 W. Washington Blvd, Chicago IL 60607, or online at https://cpdmemorial.org.