Michael E. Betlinski

Beloved husband, uncle, cousin and father of Joseph Michael, his stillborn son, passed away on Saturday April 30th and returned to God for whom he was created. Michael was a prolific reader, loved learning and never stopped advancing his education. He had an Administration and Supervisory Certificate from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Loyola University.  He was a College Counselor for Regina Dominican High School from 2006-2015, an Interim Guidance Director for Schaumburg High School in 1995 and Guidance Counselor for Schaumburg High School from 1977-2006.  When he was healthy, he participated in many extracurricular activities that supported the well-being and growth of his students. Michael loved education and had an uncanny way of quickly assessing the abilities of his students in order to help them reach their full potential. He never believed in labels and felt every child had a calling and path. There are many examples of him doing personal intervention on behalf of a struggling student. In the final season of his career as a College Counselor at Regina Dominican, he had the opportunity to influence young women to become their very best. Michael was an avid sports fan, loved Notre Dame, Bears, Bulls, Eagles and the Cubs. He had a passion for history, old movies and then later in life learning scripture and knowing God. His men’s group, a brotherhood of sojourners, meant the world to him. How fortunate to be married to this wonderful man for 42 years. His loyalty, faithfulness and generosity were unmatched. He never forgot a birthday or anniversary, even when he was ill. My beloved gave my life color and texture. For your Faithful, Oh Lord, life is changed - not taken away.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Michael's name to: Save The Children, 501 Kings Highway East, Suite 400, Fairfield, CT 06825. www.savethechildren.org/us/ways-to-help/ways-to-give

A visitation for Michael will be held from 9am until the time of mass at 11am on Thursday May 5, 2022 at St. Anne’s Catholic Community, 120 Ela Street, Barrington, IL 60010