Roland Marshall Obituary

Roland Marshall

Born: Sept. 26, 1920; in Bronx, NY

Died: April 26, 2015; in Western Springs, IL

Roland "Mike" Marshall was born on September 26, 1920, in the Bronx, New York, and returned peacefully to eternal life surrounded by his family on April 26, 2015, at his home in Western Springs, where he lived for 53 years.

Mike graduated from St. Mary's High School in Katonah, New York, the Merchant Marine Academy in Kingsport, New York, and Villanova University.

During WWII, Mike served in both the Merchant Marines and the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater, sailing on Destroyers and Liberty Ships, working in the engine room.

Mike was a devoted husband to his wife, Diana, of 60 years, and father to his two sons, Roland (Julie) and Damian (Debbie); as well as his five grandchildren, Michael, Jane, Mary, Riley and Trinity. His sister, Gloria (O'Connor) lives in North Carolina, and he was preceded in death by his sister, Alice.

Mike was employed by the Visking Division of Union Carbide for many years. He started his career in New York, but was promoted to National Sales Manager, and transferred to Chicago in 1962. He stayed with Union Carbide until the 80's, and left to join Griffith Laboratories again in Executive Sales Management. Mike was the consummate salesman, always using his wide spread contacts to put people together, helping people find jobs, and just helping people in need.

His generosity to St. John of the Cross Church, Villanova University and countless other charities over the years was remarkable. Truly, beyond his immediate family, his main hobby was community service and participation in the local VFW chapter. At his parish, St. John of the Cross, he was Director of Lectors for six years, a member of the Building Fund Committee and volunteered in countless other endeavors. For three years, he was on the Board of Governors at Benet Academy in Lisle, Vice Chairman for two years and also Dad's Club President 1972-73. He was on the Western Springs Park Board from 1985 to 1991, and President from 1989 to 1991. He was President of the Associate Board of LaGrange Memorial Hospital in 1990, member of the Executive Committee as Secretary and Treasurer for 7 years, board member for 18 years and Chairman of the Dinner Dance Fund Raiser. Also, member of the Board of Trustees of the Hospital's Foundation and Chairman of the Community Relations Committee. Member of the President's Club of Villanova Alumni Association. Devoted member of Western Springs VFW Post 10778, loved organizing and participating in the WS Memorial Day parade.

Truly, Mike led a simple but extraordinary life; he was simply extraordinary and will be sorely missed.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 30, 2015, at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St. in Countryside, IL from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Family and friends are asked to meet for a 9:45 a.m. Funeral Mass on Friday, May 1, at St. John of the Cross Church, 5001 S. Wolf Rd. in Western Springs, IL. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL.

Funeral information 708-352-6500 or hjfunerals.com