The Michael P. Savoca Memorial Foundation is a not-for-profit charitable entity that has been created to increase public awareness and raise funds to help support organizations that are dedicated to finding a cure and raising awareness of Pulmonary Fibrosis. The Michael P. Savoca Foundation was established to honor the memory of Michael P. Savoca and his generous spirit. Our organization intends to accomplish these goals through fund raising events that will educate, inform and entertain its event participants.
Board of Directors
- Willy Savoca, President
- Hayley Savoca, Vice President
- Tim Savoca, Treasurer
- Tom Savoca, Secretary
- Heather D’Amico and Tony Savoca, Directors of Fundraising
- Heidi Doyle
Advisory Members of the Board
- Lou Hetrovicz
- Gary Nadeau
- Bruce Osborne
- Dave Wescott
“Although Mike is no longer with us, it is our sincere hope that we can keep Mike’s spirit alive through this foundation and the positive work we hope to accomplish catching a breath of hope for Pulmonary Fibrosis.”
About Michael P Savoca
Mike Savoca was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis on March 17, 2009. Prior to his diagnosis, Mike and his family had never heard of Pulmonary Fibrosis. Over the next six months, his family watched as this horrific disease consumed Mike. Mike became easily winded and often, could not catch his breath. His breathing became labored. As Mike suffered, his family felt helpless that there was nothing they could do to help Mike. There is no cure, no treatment for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Mike passed away on September 25, 2009, just six short months after his initial diagnosis.
Although Mike passed away from Pulmonary Fibrosis, the disease did not define him. Mike’s favorite movie was It’s a Wonderful Life. In his short life, Mike truly embodied George Bailey. Mike positively impacted many people during his life. He was a man of integrity, hard work and family values. Mike had a career of nearly forty years at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. He was a mentor and friend to many of his people at the CME, always willing to listen and give advice. Mike had many lifelong friends and loved to laugh. Mike’s true passion in life was his family. The roles of husband, dad and grandpa are what truly made Mike happy.
The Michael P. Savoca Foundation was founded by Mike’s six children who serve as the Board of Directors for the Foundation. His wife also serves as a Board Member. Four of his friends serve as advisors to the Board.