My name is Chris Breakey, and I am organizing this fundraiser on behalf of the family of my friend and colleague, Michael Sances. Michael F. Sances of Lemont passed away on December 8, 2025, at the age of 55, after a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind his loving wife Judy and their two daughters, Nina and Gina.
Over the past year and a half, Michael and his family endured an incredibly difficult journey—emotionally, physically, and financially. Despite everything he was facing, Michael never lost the qualities that defined him: kindness, humor, optimism, and a genuine care for others. Throughout his battle, he would always ask for status reports on situations at work and offer advice on how to handle any challenge. He never failed to remind me that he would be back at work soon. He showed dedication and devotion to his teammates even in the face of such a devastating disease.
Michael was not only a dear friend, but also a supervisor who worked under me in the Public Works Department of the Village of Western Springs. He was a steady presence in a department made up of many young and inexperienced staff. Michael was always there to listen, encourage, teach, and most importantly, keep these young people safe. He had a way of lifting others up, always with a smile on his face and a reassuring word. When the pressures of the job weighed heavily, Michael was often the one reminding me that everything would be alright. He never hesitated to lend a hand or take on whatever task was asked of him. His positivity and work ethic left a lasting impression on all of us.
Above all else, Michael was a devoted husband and a proud father. He spoke constantly about his family and especially about his daughters. Nina and Gina were his world. He was incredibly proud of the talented, accomplished young women they are becoming.
Now, Judy and the girls face life without Michael’s support and income. Nina is approaching college, and Gina is just 12 years old. This fundraiser is intended to help ease the financial burden they now carry, covering day-to-day expenses, education costs, and providing some stability during an unimaginably difficult time.
Any contribution, no matter the size, will help. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page. Thank you for supporting the Sances’ family and honoring the memory of a truly good man.
Over the past year and a half, Michael and his family endured an incredibly difficult journey—emotionally, physically, and financially. Despite everything he was facing, Michael never lost the qualities that defined him: kindness, humor, optimism, and a genuine care for others. Throughout his battle, he would always ask for status reports on situations at work and offer advice on how to handle any challenge. He never failed to remind me that he would be back at work soon. He showed dedication and devotion to his teammates even in the face of such a devastating disease.
Michael was not only a dear friend, but also a supervisor who worked under me in the Public Works Department of the Village of Western Springs. He was a steady presence in a department made up of many young and inexperienced staff. Michael was always there to listen, encourage, teach, and most importantly, keep these young people safe. He had a way of lifting others up, always with a smile on his face and a reassuring word. When the pressures of the job weighed heavily, Michael was often the one reminding me that everything would be alright. He never hesitated to lend a hand or take on whatever task was asked of him. His positivity and work ethic left a lasting impression on all of us.
Above all else, Michael was a devoted husband and a proud father. He spoke constantly about his family and especially about his daughters. Nina and Gina were his world. He was incredibly proud of the talented, accomplished young women they are becoming.
Now, Judy and the girls face life without Michael’s support and income. Nina is approaching college, and Gina is just 12 years old. This fundraiser is intended to help ease the financial burden they now carry, covering day-to-day expenses, education costs, and providing some stability during an unimaginably difficult time.
Any contribution, no matter the size, will help. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page. Thank you for supporting the Sances’ family and honoring the memory of a truly good man.
Organizer and beneficiary
Judy Sances
Beneficiary