Michael Ray Tatum
Michael Ray Tatum, 72, passed away from natural causes on October 19, 2020, in his Willowbrook, Illinois home. Tatum was a proud and loving father, and leaves behind two daughters, Sophia Marie Young Tatum of Washington, D.C., and Olivia Grace Young Tatum of Chicago. He was also a loving brother, and is survived by his younger sister, Patti McAlpin, of Lexington, Kentucky, with whom he remained close until his passing.
Born on October 1, 1948, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Edgar Ray Tatum and Kathryne Gillis Tatum, Tatum’s humble roots were always a point of pride and a source of fond memories. He was an avid reader with a hunger for learning and loved to share his fascinations with others. It’s an understatement to say his passions and interests were wide-ranging, as they encompassed everything from politics to the science of the universe — not to mention golf and fishing.
Tatum graduated from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (formerly Rose Polytechnic Institute), before moving to Chicago and starting his career in insurance. He went on to receive his master’s degree from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Tatum was dedicated to his profession, working for companies including Corroon & Black, Willis, and Aon. He was known for his work ethic. His career took him around the world and introduced him to numerous life-long friends. He will not only be remembered for countless admirable qualities and life lessons he passed along to his daughters, but especially for his good nature and down-to-earth view of the world, his wit and humor, and his natural talent for story-telling.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations in his name to the Indian Prairie Public Library Foundation & Friends. Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside. Info: (708) 352-6500
I met Mike on his first day at work in the insurance industry in Chicago about 50 years ago. For a good part of that 50 years we worked together in various roles at various places of employment. We became fast friends quickly and I can truly say that Mike’s presence in my life has been a blessing. His humor made things a lot more fun than they would have been otherwise. Oddly, I can’t remember Mike ever repeating a joke he had heard somewhere else. His humor, often directed at himself, was spontaneous, and sprang from keen insight and considerable intelligence. Like a true friend, I was happy to see Mike grow and succeed in his career, and only envied him one thing- his ability to make and hold such a variety of friends. Mike loved books but he really loved to know people and learn about their stories. So Mike, thanks for all the laughter and the helping hands you gave me over the years. Talk to you later.
Dave
I met Mike around 47 years ago. Through the years, in any ways, Mike and I were like brothers. We helped each other, we watched each other’s back, we were always there when needed, and we argued more than occasionally. Mike often talked of his growing up in Kentucky. Being a Southerner myself, I quickly grew to appreciate his love for his parents, his sister, and the experiences of growing up in the South. I had the good fortune of meeting Mike’s parents and sister, and witnessed first hand his love and pride in them. Our Southern roots were the basis of our friendship, and it grew stronger over the years on fishing trips, golfing, watching him grow in his career, and seeing him brag with love about his daughters as they grew up. I was very fortunate to have known Mike Tatum. I will miss Mike’s intellect and curiosity. But more than anything I will miss Mike’s humor and quick wit. Safe journey my friend. Find peace. May the fish always bite and the putts always sink. You have earned it.
Thanks for being our friend Mike, and thank you for so many wonderful memories.
You are with Sara now. Is the wine any good there? Save a glass for the three of us one day.
Now you know for sure what’s in those black holes. Rest in peace, Love you, Bob
I was so fortune to have worked with Mike at Aon in the waning years of his career- I was his Account Specialist for a few years and I was so lucky to have known him- even for a relatively short time. Mike was such a light in my life, and in our office. He had incredible wit, intelligence and such zest for life- I loved hearing about his daughters or what book he was reading. We had many spirited conversations about politics, being on different ends of the political spectrum, but we definitely respected each other’s opinion. He taught me about Kentucky Wonder beans and often spoke lovingly about his childhood there. In his final years I’ll never forget his excitement at discovering the convenience of rotisserie chickens in the grocery store- so funny! He was truly one of a kind, and I miss him, every day.
It is with sadness that I only recently learned of Mike’s passing. We first met as freshmen at Rose Polytechnic in 1967. Over the next 4 years we became friends as we worked hard to get through our engineering classes. Mike had a very good sense of humor and was a lot of fun to be with. I just returned from our 50th Class Reunion from Rose, and I was looking forward to seeing Mike and catching up with him on his career and travels. He will be missed.