Heights Planning Commissioner, Army Vet Dies at 85

Longtime Chicago Heights resident Michael J. Morris died on Jan. 15 at the age of 85.

Morris spent his younger years serving in the U.S. Army as a surveying engineer for the Panama Canal zone. His skills followed him upon return home, and he got a job as a civil engineer for ComEd—a job he held for 35 years.

Beyond his work experience, Morris was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Chicago Heights Planning Commission. He also volunteered for the Tax Assistance Program at Bloom Township Senior Services for many years.

Morris is survived by his wife Dorothy, whom he was married to for 58 years, as well as four children and numerous grandchildren.

“I had the privilege of chatting with Mr. Morris practically every day when I passed by his home,” writes Moses Cabrera on Morris’ online obituary. “It was always a treat for me to listen to him, to always make him smile and experience his sweet spirit.”

You can read Morris’ full obituary online.