Michael Kim
Michael Kim was born in Seoul, Korea in 1935. Early in life, he studied Journalism at Korea National University and served as an officer in the Korean Army. During the Korean War, he worked on a US Army base, where he befriended an American GI who later sponsored his visa to the United States. In 1959, he moved to the United States, initially staying with his friend in Los Angeles, before moving to the Chicago area. In 1966, he met his wife, Soomi. Together, they had two children, Daniel and Angela.
Michael knew the value of hard work and made numerous sacrifices for his family to enjoy a good life in the United States. He was passionate about learning, receiving two masters degrees in Guidance Counseling and Education/Mathematics. He believed that the most impactful way to serve society was by helping young people get an education. He taught high school mathematics for over 25 years, and much of his career was at a technical high school on the South Side of Chicago. On “Citizenship Day” in 1971, first lady Pat Nixon recognized his contributions in the classroom with an “Outstanding New Citizen of the Year” award. He read widely and loved seeing the world, sharing his vast knowledge and ability to connect with all walks of life.
In 1998, Michael and Soomi retired to Tucson, Arizona. They loved the scenery and serenity of the desert, enjoying new and old hobbies including hiking, golfing, and hosting their grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Soomi, and he is survived by his life partner Whaja, son Daniel, daughter Angela, daughter-in-law Teresa, son-in-law Alec, and grandchildren Calista and Annabel. He was also a dear brother, uncle, cousin, friend of many and consummate teacher.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Southern Poverty Law Center: https://www.splcenter.org/support-us/
Memorial will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Colonial-Wojciechowski Funeral Home, 8025 W. Golf Rd., Niles.
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Welcome refreshments
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Service and celebration of life
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Reception
Entombment at All Saints Mausoleum at a later date.