Michael J. Finn

Michael J. Finn, 90, of Aurora, Illinois passed away peacefully on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Edward Hospital in Naperville.

Michael was born on October 24, 1935, in Dublin, Ireland. He was educated by the Christian Brothers. He left Ireland at the age of 18 after the loss of both his parents. After a brief stay in London, Michael set sail to Australia where he worked his way from Perth to Sydney on the railroad.

Michael became one of the first lay missionaries to Papua New Guinea where he worked with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (“MSC”). Michael helped to oversee banana plantations in New Guinea for the MSCs. He took initial vows as a brother during this time and only left service after learning he would not be able to return to missionary work due to health concerns after surviving a bout of malaria.

After leaving the MSCs main campus in Geneva, Michael settled in Aurora. While he primarily worked for Caterpillar, he also worked at various times for Aurora Central Catholic High School, Archbishop Romero/St. Nicholaus, and the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”), until his retirement.

Michael was the beloved husband of the late Mary C. (Brungart) Finn, with whom he shared forty-four beautiful years of marriage. He was a devoted husband and loving father who treasured his family and the many friendships that he formed throughout his life.

Michael was a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus and was a one-time member of the Moose Lodge. In addition, he was involved in several social clubs throughout Aurora and at one time served as the President of the Irish Club. He loved to travel and attend theater productions with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, tall tales, love of Notre Dame, and whimsical stubbornness.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Kathleen Finn, as well as treasured friends, many of whom he considered family.

Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; both his parents, Michael & Annie (Geraghty) Finn, and his siblings, Patricia Finn, James Finn, and Eileen (Eamonn) McMahon.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 1:30 PM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street Aurora, IL 60506, 630-631-5500.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:30 PM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY to Holy Angels Church at 2:00 PM; Fr. Jerome Leake will officiate with interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to Little Sisters of the Poor in Palatine, Illinois.

Arrangements entrusted to Daleiden Mortuary, Aurora, Illinois – providing funeral and cremation services to Aurora, Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Batavia, Yorkville and surrounding communities.