A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

McMichael’s journey was marked by his remarkable dedication to football, culminating in his induction into the NFL Hall of Fame last February alongside fellow Bears legends Devin Hester and Julius Peppers. Just hours before his passing, the family announced that he would enter hospice care, a poignant moment in a challenging fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis that began in 2021.

His wife, Misty McMichael, expressed heartfelt sentiments amid the struggle, stating, “I told him, babe, there’s another life out there. Hold a spot for me.”

Football Career Highlights

Known for his larger-than-life persona, McMichael was a standout player on the Super Bowl XX champion Bears team. His impressive career spanned 15 seasons with notable achievements, including:

• Two-time Super Bowl champion
• Two-time NFL First Team All-Pro (1985, 1987)
• Two-time NFL Pro Bowl selection (1986, 1987)

McMichael’s statistics include 847 tackles, 95 sacks, and numerous other defensive records, solidifying his status as a key player on one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses.

More Than Just a Football Player

Beyond the field, McMichael dabbled in professional wrestling, briefly holding the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship. He also ventured into politics, running for mayor in Romeoville, Illinois, receiving 39% of the vote against the incumbent.

As a coach, he led the Chicago Slaughter in the Indoor Football League from 2007 to 2013, continuing his dedication to the sport he loved.

A Community Impact

Friends and teammates remember McMichael not just for his prowess on the field, but for his kind spirit and generous nature. Former Bears linebacker Ron Rivera remarked, “He’s a fighter, he’s a battler,” encapsulating the spirit that defined him.

In a tribute, former teammate Tom Waddle noted, “It was an honor to call Steve a teammate. He was tough as nails and a gentle giant.” McMichael’s personality shone through even in his later years, despite the challenges ALS presented.

Final Days and Memorial Plans

The determination of McMichael was evident until the end. Misty revealed that during his final days, he remained focused on love and connection, saying that ALS may have taken his voice but it did not diminish his presence. Plans for a public memorial are in progress as his family and fans prepare to celebrate his life and contributions to sports.

Survived by his wife and their 17-year-old daughter, McMichael had made arrangements for his ashes to be combined with those of his beloved wife, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.