Michael E. Smith

Michael E. Smith, 64, of Marquette Heights, IL passed away at 3:18 PM Friday, December 4, 2020 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Mike was born on December 10, 1955 in Hillsboro, IL to Woodrow and Edith (Hall) Smith. He married Mary Burmeister on August 12, 1976 in Pekin. He was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving are: his wife, Mary of Marquette Heights; two sons, Brandon (Jodi) Smith of Morton, IL and Ryan (Annie) Smith of Tremont, IL; five grandchildren, Lily, Morgan, Olivia, Naomi and Sullivan Smith; two brothers, Terry (Shirley) Smith of Scottsdale, AZ and Douglas (Rainy) Smith of Phoenix, AZ; two sisters, Serita Smith of Marquette Heights and Linda Denton of Sapulpa, OK. Mike and Mary were long time members of Christ Bible Church in Creve Coeur where he had served as a Deacon. They recently had been attending Summit Point in East Peoria. He was also a member of Teamster Local 629. He was currently employed at Caterpillar, Inc. as an engine tester. Mike loved the Lord and his family. He loved his home and was always working on something - usually for his boys. He loved his grandbabies more than anything. They affectionately called him Pops, and when it came to their wishes, Pops could never say no. He selflessly took care of his mother until her passing. He was loved by his nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors, coworkers, brothers, and sisters. He was loved as a father figure by so many. He will be missed, especially by his wife of 44 years. He was one of a kind, and he left a legacy that will never be forgotten. Mike was separated from his family at the end of his life due to this horrible virus, COVID-19. The Smith family wishes to encourage others to please take it seriously and to take all precautions to protect their loved ones. Cremation will be accorded with a celebration of Mikes life at a later date. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with Mikes arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to an education fund for Mike's grandchildren. An account has been set up at CEFCU, donations may be directed to Ryan Smith FBO Michael E. Smith at any CEFCU location.