Michael DeLarco was 10 years old when he was struck and killed by a Metra train on the evening of February 23, 2004 in River Grove, IL. Michael, his mother, and his sister took the train to River Grove to meet his father who was picking them up at the station so they could all go visit Michael’s great-grandmother for the last time since she was very ill. Michael, his mother and his sister departed off their train and waited on the crosswalk for their train to exit the station. As it did, Michael, who was in front of his family, was struck by a second train passing through the station. Michael’s death was witnessed by his mother, his sister, and his father who was waiting on the other side as well as others who were present at the station that evening. Michael’s sudden and tragic death has been difficult not only for his family and friends of his family, but his friends, classmates, faculty of his school, coaches, scout leaders, and those in the community.
Michael was in the 5th grade at St. Hubert School and was an active boy who had a zest for life. He was always smiling or laughing. Michael enjoyed being a member of the school basketball team, participated in Boy Scouts for many years, played the trumpet in the St. Hubert Band, and played soccer and baseball for the Schaumburg Park District. Michael attended mass regularly with his family at St. Hubert Church.
Michael was known for being helpful to his neighbors by shoveling their snow and bringing up their newspaper every morning while walking to the school bus. Anyone who knew Michael felt his warm heart and vibrant personality, but most will remember him by his infectious smile. Michael was always polite and had the utmost respect for his elders. Michael will always have a special place in the hearts of those who knew him.