Michael Joseph Widrlechner, 67, of Westmont, passed away Sept. 2, 2021, at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove.
He was born in Chicago in 1954, to Charles V. and Rosanne (Riley) Widrlechner.
Michael grew up in Clarendon Hills, attended Hinsdale Central High School and was a graduate of Roosevelt University, where he received his bachelor’s and paralegal certification. He met Judy while employed at Jewel Foods. They recently celebrated 44 years together.
Michael’s career path took him from marketing director for two Chicago Food Brokers to manager-trainer for Pier 1 Imports, then on to American International University as an admissions adviser, then to Nielsen TV Ratings as a marketing representative trainer for the Chicago Region, ending his career as a laser technician for Fortec Medical. “Dr. Laser,” as his nephews and nieces called him, traveled to hospitals in multiple states. He took pride and teaching and assisting people. In between career opportunities, Michael substitute taught for Westmont Community District 201, Westmont High School, and supervised the lifeguards.
He volunteered as a paralegal intern at the Illinois Department of Corrections and was a volunteer for 20 years with Civil Air Patrol, Air Force Auxiliary, where he held the rank of 1st lieutenant. He was an active member of the Westmont Alumni Police Academy and in the Catholic Church, teaching CCD in the God Parent Program at Notre Dame in Clarendon Hills and serving as an usher at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Westmont.
Michael was an avid fly fishermen who loved sports and biking. Family life was what he loved most, attending sporting events and other activities of his sons. He treasured the family adventures together — hiking, river rafting, boating, snorkeling and scuba and free diving. Michael’s life was dedicated to teaching and helping people. He believed that each day was an opportunity to learn.
He is survived by his wife, Judith (Lehner) Widrlechner; his children, Terrence C. (fiancée Maureen McLaughlin) Widrlechner and Patrick J. (Lisa) Widrlechner; and Maureen’s daughter, Mackenzie Nicpon.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10, Adolf Funeral Home, 7000 S. Madison St. Willowbrook.
Family and friends will meet at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 11 for a funeral mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 25 E. Richmond St., Westmont.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Honolulu Police Relief Association, 1537 Young St. #200, Honolulu, Hawaii 96286 (online at (https://www.hprahawaii.org) or the U.S. Coast Guard Foundation, 394 Taugwonk Road, Stonington, CT 06378-1807 (online at coastguardfoundation.org/guardian2021).
Brian Powell Funeral Directors of Hinsdale handled the arrangements.
