Michael Francis Anthony, known to all as Mike, passed away on September
7, 2023, in his beloved hometown of Chicago, Illinois, at the age of 72,
leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom.
In the
grand tapestry of Mike's life, family was always at the heart. His
loving wife, Liz Burke, was his steadfast partner in life's journey,
while his children, Erin Anthony David (Neil), Connor, Ian, Madeline
Shea, McKenzie, and stepson, Michael Sineni, were the stars in his
constellation. His mother, Margaret Shea Anthony, and father, Rudolph
Anthony, predeceased him, while his brothers, James (Linda) and Thomas
(Cheryl), remain to honor his memory, accompanied by a multitude of
cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Mike's intellectual journey began
at Mendel High School, Chicago, followed by Xavier University,
Cincinnati, where he earned both BS and MHA degrees. He further pursued
his thirst for knowledge at the University of Baltimore, earning a JD,
thus paving the way for his illustrious career.
His professional
life was a testament to his incredible drive and dedication. Mike served
as the former Head of the International Health Law Department at
McDermott Will & Emery and the former Senior Vice President for
Legal Affairs at the American Hospital Association. Mike also served in
leadership at the American Health Law Association, where he was a past
President, Board Member, and Senior Fellow. His professional career
began at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore as the former
Administrator of the Henry Phipps Psychiatric Clinic. His service
extended to the Board of The Gateway Foundation and various alumni and
community organizations.
Mike possessed a spirit that was as
expansive as it was warm. He was devoted to his family. His passion for
travel experiences, art, music, and theater was infectious. A mentor to
many junior colleagues, family, and friends, he was a living example of
his maxim, "Always do your best." He was a beacon of laughter in any
gathering, a wellspring of loving affection, and a wise sage in every
sense.
To quote Robert Frost, "In three words I can sum up
everything I've learned about life: it goes on." As we mourn Mike's
passing, we remember his life with joy, for he lived with an unyielding
optimism and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people. His words,
his laughter, and his wisdom will echo in our hearts, reminding us that
life, indeed, goes on, and that the best way to honor his memory is to
live our lives with the same love, laughter, and wisdom he so generously
shared with us.
