Michael Charles Heltzer, a visionary designer and entrepreneur, passed away on February 3, 2023, after a brief illness. He was 62 years old.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on October 28, 1960, Michael was a beloved son of Arnold Hurst Heltzer and Gail Ellen (Kravitz) Heltzer, who survive him.  He was the husband of Elizabeth Hopkins Heltzer and the father of their four cherished children: Henry Hurst Heltzer, Rose Tully Heltzer, George Hopkins Heltzer, and Estelle Geraldine Heltzer.  He was brother to John (Debby) Heltzer and treasured uncle to many.  Michael was also a nephew of Harley and Marcia Kravitz, and cousin to their children.  He was a loyal friend to many and deeply touched the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Michael grew up in Highland Park, Illinois, and graduated from Highland Park High School.  He received a BA from the University of Colorado at Boulder before going on to earn a JD from Northwestern University School of Law.  During his time in law school, he discovered his passion for furniture design and eventually transitioned into entrepreneurship. He founded Heltzer Furniture Design and later, Stay, a modern dog hotel that expanded to offer training and placement of rescue dogs in Chicago.

Michael was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his kindness, as well as his love of nature and all creatures great and small. He was devoted to his family, including his many dogs, and was an active member of his community. He enjoyed baseball, motorcycles, and bicycling.

His vision, artistry, and humanity will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life service will be held at a future date; for details please visit: michaelheltzer.com

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to the World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20037, www.worldwildlife.org. Info: The Goldman Funeral Group, www.goldmanfuneralgroup.com (847) 478-1600.