Michael M. Bill

In Loving Memory of Michael M. Bill January 30, 1936 – August 11, 2025

Michael M. Bill passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, August 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on January 30, 1936, in Evanston, Illinois, Michael was the son of Lillian Moran and Joseph George Bill. He grew up with his two brothers, Joseph and Robert, who both preceded him in death. The bond between the three of them shaped much of Michael's early life and values - loyalty, humility, and the quiet strength of family.

A talented athlete, Michael attended Syracuse University, where he played linebacker and center. He graduated in 1958 and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers, although he ultimately chose another career path. Syracuse left a lasting mark on him, and he remained deeply involved with the university throughout his life. He became a trustee in 2001, serving as Chairman of the Audit Committee and contributing as a member of both the Facilities and Athletic Committees. His dedication to the university was later honored with lifetime trustee status, as well as the naming of the football locker room in the new performance center, an acknowledgment that meant the world to him. Michael often spoke of how Syracuse helped shape his work ethic and gave him the opportunity to build a life beyond anything he could have imagined. As part of his ongoing support, he endowed the Head Football Coach Fund and established a Linebacker Scholarship awarded annually to the outstanding graduating senior, ensuring future generations of athletes would benefit from the same opportunities he treasured.

In April 1973, Michael married the love of his life, Sharon Mount. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, patience, and unconditional love. Their nearly 53 years together were a testament to enduring partnership and commitment.

Michael was a devoted father to his four children: Terri Bill, Michael H. Bill (Laura), Betsy Bill MacNab (Colin MacNab), and Daniel Bill (Melisa). He took immense pride in watching each of them grow, build their own families, and pass on the values he held dear. His presence in their lives was steady and dependable - always there when needed, rarely in the spotlight, but deeply woven into the fabric of every family moment.

In 1964, Michael founded M-J Insurance (now the MJ Companies) with a vision to build not just a successful business, but a lasting culture. He set out to create a company that would be the best workplace for employees and the best partner for clients. His legacy lives on through MJ, which has grown from his original vision into one of the largest privately held, family-owned independent insurance agencies in the country. After passing the reins to the next generation, Michael watched with pride as the company continued to flourish on the foundation he built.

He was “Popsie” to six grandchildren: Michael Bill (Emilyn), Hank Bill (Tori), Nick MacNab, Jack MacNab, Elizabeth Bill, and Heather MacNab. He cherished time spent with each of them - quiet chats, shared jokes, and family meals full of laughter and stories. In recent months, Michael was blessed with the joy of meeting his first great-grandchild, Baron Henry Bill, a milestone that brought him great happiness and pride.

Michael’s life was not defined by grand gestures but by the deep impact he had on those lucky enough to know him. He was a man of wisdom, dry wit, and unwavering love for his family. Whether as a father, grandfather, husband, friend, colleague, or mentor - he led with character, kindness, and an uncommon steadiness. His legacy will continue for generations.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Private services will be held. A celebration of his life honoring Michael will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MJ Foundation Fund: https://donorbox.org/mj-foundation-fund