Michael Jay Barron

February 12th, 2021

I am still trying to process the loss of Michael, a wonderful soul, taken way too early.

As I watched his funeral, so many thoughts ran through my mind. If we were in “normal” times, there would have been a line out the door and around the corner.

In describing Michael’s love for his hometown/neighborhood, the Rabbi said something to the effect of, “You can move out of Chicago, but Chicago could not move out of Michael.”

He went on to say how those early friendships meant so much to him.

Our neighborhood fostered friendships that will last a lifetime. Even if a classmate wasn’t one of your closest friends, the fact that we grew up in the “hood” and went to Mather High School together, there will always be an unspoken special bond.

Danny Levin, one of Michael’s closest friends, recently reposted this message: “You never forget the neighborhood kids you grew up with.”

How true.

I will miss our conversations that were filled with his quick wit, extensive vocabulary, passion for what he believed in, his love for family and friends, and I am already missing the Facebook messages that popped up on my computer from him at 3 am telling me to “go to sleep!”

To Michael’s family ~ I am hoping that knowing he mattered to so many offers comfort.

Michael will remain forever in my heart. May his memory be for a blessing.

~Audrey (Lieb) Goldman
~Friend, Deerfield

February 7th, 2021

I can’t believe you’re gone so suddenly. I will miss you, especially on Saturday’s & Sunday’s during WXRT Saturday morning flashback & Breakfast with the Beatles. You always made me smile. RIP dear friend. ❤️

~Ellen Rothfeld
~Friend, Buffalo Grove

February 5th, 2021

My deepest condolences to Lissy, Lainey and Jamie. Michael was a great guy who will be missed by all who knew him. He left way too early! I am so sorry for your loss! Al Libfeld

~Al Libfeld
~Cousin, Toronto, On