Michael W. Hulchiy

Michael William Hulchiy, known as "Big Mike," "Big Cheese," and "Yelling Uncle Mike," passed away on September 10, 2024, in Chicago, IL, at the age of 79. Born on February 7, 1945, in Chicago, IL, Mike's life was a testament to his robust personality and diverse interests.

Mike attended St. Priscilla’s grade school, followed by Prosser Vocational High School. He further honed his skills at Washburn Trade School, which paved the way for his distinguished career. A proud member of the Illinois Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union 134, Mike started as an electrician and rose to become the head electrician and eventually the operations director at the Rosemont Horizon/Allstate Arena. He also served as the electrical inspector for the village of Rosemont. 

His service to the country was marked by his time in the United States Marine Corps from 1966-1968, including a tour in Vietnam, displaying valor and commitment to national service.

Mike, the man, the myth, the legend was a complex person. On one hand he was the most stubborn man you ever met, he did everything his way, he took doctors requirements as suggestions, he was loud, his whistle was the entire neighborhood’s alert to get home,and he said whatever was on his mind. On the other hand he was the most generous person you would have ever met. At Christmas he was Santa Claus, when you needed a hand with anything, he was there, and if he couldn’t help he had a guy. He was numerous people’s ticket getter, he was a "Jack of all trades" and a perpetual jokester. His title as Grandpa/Papa Mike was his best role, he attended their sporting events, took them driving when they got their permits, and called them all the time even in an era of texting. Mike was an avid sports fan, cheering for Notre Dame football, the Chicago Bears, and the White Sox. His love for fishing, golfing, and cooking—often critiquing food like a seasoned critic—were among his favorite pastimes.

He is survived by his son, Michael N. Hulchiy; daughter, Tracy (Don) Cosley; stepchildren, Kristine (Ron) Sanko, Michael Lee; grandchildren, Michael LaCursia, Carter and Braden Cosley, Brandon (Ashley) Sanko, Kassidy (Dale) Dargatz, Mike Lee; great-grandchildren, Marley, Lennon, Presley, Ava, and Layla; aunt, Judy (Michael) Guzaldo; siblings, Dee Motyka, Marybeth (Michael) Madry, Nanci Hulchiy, Bill and John Hulchiy; and numerous nieces and nephews. His extended family and large circle of friends will dearly miss him.

Mike was preceded in death by his girlfriend, Kathleen Lee; father, Michael S. Hulchiy; mother, Dorothy Hulchiy; brother, Robert Hulchiy; and nephews, Michael Madry and Travis Bestwick.

A funeral service will be held at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery on Friday 11/29 at 2pm. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately afterwards until approximately 6:30pm at Moretti's in Rosemont where friends and family can share memories and celebrate the life of a man who was indeed larger than life itself.