Michael Patrick Dineen

Michael Patrick Dineen, 82, of Northbrook, Illinois, died peacefully on May 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on January 12, 1943, to Aileen (Conway) and George C. Dineen, he was a graduate of Pius XI High School (1961) and the University of St. Thomas (1965).
He sold industrial laundry equipment for more than half a century before retiring as Vice President of Pellerin Milnor Corporation in 2017. Relationships were his craft, and no one was more dedicated or skilled in the trade.
Though he was born, raised, and resided in the Midwest for most of his life, including 40 years in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Michael's work took him all over the world. He lived in California from 1966 to 1977, inspiring a wave of his siblings to follow suit.
Michael married the love of his life, Suzanne (Monday), on August 14, 1976, a fellow Milwaukeean who found herself in southern California in the early 1970s. Their bond was defined by their resilience, strength, and humor. Together, they had four children: Kerry Parkinson (Matthew), Kevin (Erin), Brendan (Michelle), and Daniel (Kate). Their eight grandchildren will always remember him as Poppi: Norah, Adeline, Sam, and Olivia Parkinson; Katherine, Owen, and Clara Dineen; and Annabelle Dineen.
Michael was also "the best big brother anyone could ask for" to: Peter (Kathy), Patrick (Peggy), Margaret (Dr. Mort Kern), Ellen (Ruben Presiado), Dennis (Barbara), Mary, and Tese (John Rhiel); and brother-in-law to Robert (Chris) Monday, Richard Monday, and Jean Dineen. Being their brother was the honor of his life. He also loved all of his many nieces, nephews, and cousins dearly, and never missed an opportunity to speak of them glowingly. He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved brother, Timothy, and many other friends and family.
Michael loved life, and life loved him right back. His charisma could uplift a room and he made a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of meeting him. He had an anecdote for every occasion and every occasion was an opportunity to add to his repository of stories.
Michael was a talented athlete and played linebacker in high school and college. He loved to ski on water and snow, hike in the mountains, camp and canoe around lakes, and, most of all, to fish in rivers. His love of fishing and friends found its greatest expression in the International Pisces Committee, a club of colleagues where he served as its Founder and Chairman. Michael was an Eagle Scout, tinkerer, coach, collector, and connoisseur of good food and drink. He was silly and profound in equal measure, and never happier than when he was telling stories around a fire.
Michael expressed his gratitude to the many nurses, caregivers, and doctors who attended to his health and comfort over the years. He wished to thank his children's in-laws: the Parkinson, Kuglitsch, Pak, and Hunter families.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 30 at 11 a.m. at St. Norbert's Catholic Church (1809 Walters Avenue) in Northbrook, Illinois, with a funeral mass at noon. All are welcome. Live Stream Link.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the World Central Kitchen or the Chicago Food Depository.