Michael E. McKenna, M.D.
Michael E. McKenna, M.D. was a foundational physician executive at McLaren Health Care, serving as the first system Chief Medical Officer. He provided unmatched leadership to McLaren’s progress in quality, patient safety, harm avoidance and patient satisfaction. Dr. McKenna was a kind and insightful man who always put patients first. He had an amazing sense of humor with quick wit and sarcasm that drew everyone in. As an accomplished gastroenterologist, he was committed to patient care and helped each of us to be better. Prior to joining McLaren, he served as a chief medical officer in the Advocate Health Care system in the metropolitan Chicago community.
During Dr. McKenna’s tenure as our Chief Medical Officer, he brought national recognition to McLaren and Karmanos Cancer Institute through year-over-year improvement in clinical outcomes and expanded access to high quality care throughout our service area. Dr. McKenna served as a mentor to hundreds of physicians, nurses, and health care professionals. As a leader in health care quality, health systems from around the country reached out to Mike for guidance and he earned the respect and admiration of professional colleagues nationally.
Dr. McKenna was a passionate supporter of the Karmanos Cancer Institute and uniquely understood the importance of every member of the care team. He advocated for early detection programs, cancer screening, palliative/supportive care, and the importance of research.
For the nearly 26,000 employees of McLaren and Karmanos, securing his legacy and ensuring his passion for quality and safety will be our fidelity. We are grateful to the McKenna family for sharing their husband, father, grandfather, and uncle with us. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family during this difficult time. We will miss Mike deeply.
J. Klamerus, M.D.
President, Karmanos Cancer Hospital
Visitation is scheduled Sunday, May 15th, 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Sullivan Funeral Home, 60 South Grant St. Hinsdale, IL. A Funeral Mass for family and friends will be held Monday, May 16th at the Notre Dame Catholic Church, 64 Norfolk Ave. Clarendon Hills, IL at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Michael’s honor may be made to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.