Michael Patrick Aylward

Michael Patrick Aylward, aged 52, passed away on January 11th, 2022 after battling Multifocal Motor Neuropathy for 8 ½ years. Born on October 22nd, 1969 to Mike Aylward and Susan Schwass. He was the oldest of three, brother to Colleen and John; brother in-law to Justine, uncle to Jack and Maxwell, nephew and cousin to many.

Hit harder than most by his disease, Michael never once swayed in his determination to fight it. Though the last decade of his life was spent with this illness, his life was not defined by it.

A craftsman in trade and hobby, he originally followed his passion for cars and began his career working as a mechanic. Eventually, he shifted to working in machinist shops. Through his personal drive and intelligence, he worked his way from metalworking on the shopfloor to the design room, engineering the molds for many plastic components currently used in hospitals; a fact that brought him great pride later in life. All the same, he never gave up on his dream of one day owning his own custom auto-shop.
Before he became ill, his favorite hobby was building model cars, which won him several awards throughout the years. He had a deep love for nature and animals. He was a volunteer for the Almost Home Foundation, handling the big dogs at adoption shows (which brought him endless joy). He enjoyed mountain biking, grilling, and relaxing in his hammock.

He was a loving husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 22 years Jeannie and his son Tom.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Michael’s name to either the Almost Home Foundation or Chicago Pet Rescue.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.