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Michael LaHood Obituary
PEORIA - Michael J. LaHood, 68, of Peoria passed away at 1:10 a.m. Thursday, May 30, 2013, at his residence.
Mike was born on Dec. 11, 1944, in Peoria to Harry Jerome and Evelyn (Wells) LaHood.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Judith Jackson; and his four children, Chezley (Jason) LaHood Schupp, Alyssa (Travis Goff) LaHood, Brittany (Brad) Conway and Dayne (Molly) LaHood. Mike was the loving grandfather of Jake Michael LaHood Barnewolt and Juliet Rae Conway. He is also survived by his sisters, Beverly (Dale) Bunch, Cindy (Bob) Kallister and Brenda (Alex) Heuermann; his brother, Jerry (Angie) LaHood; and a number of nieces and nephews that he loved very much.
To Mike, family was the most important thing. His family extends to a wide group of wonderful friends that he cherished dearly.
Mike graduated from Spalding High School in 1964 and went on to attend the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyo., on a football scholarship. He served his country as a National Guardsman in the fall of 1968. He then went on to play in the NFL from 1969 to 1972 and in the CFL from 1972 to 1974.
Mike returned to Peoria in 1976 and became a laborer for Laborers' Local 165. Mike was later elected as an officer, where he served in multiple capacities and later retired as the business agent in 2001. He was most proud of his work to improve North Central Illinois Laborers' Health and Welfare benefits for his fellow brothers and sisters.
In his retirement years, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and his friends. He also enjoyed spending time up at his cabin in Wisconsin.
A visitation will be Sunday, June 9, at Wright & Salmon Mortuary from 1 to 4 p.m. As one of Mike's final requests, the family requests the presence of family, friends and brothers and sisters of the Laborers' Unions at a Mercy Dinner, which will be held as a celebration of his life at the Itoo Hall from 4:30 to 7 p.m. following the visitation. Cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude's Children Hospital and MD Anderson in honor of someone else fighting this battle.
Tributes and condolences may be submitted to www.wrightandsalmon.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael LaHood
Dennis "Whitey" Devlin
May 25, 2023
I continue to think of the "Big Man" often...I keep his picture in my office. He was inspiration for me as a younger teammate at UW. He was also like a big brother to me. I miss several of our ex-teammates, Jim Kiick, Joe Cassidy and Hub Lindsey among the many that have now passed away but Mike was/is atop the list of Cowboys I miss the most.
Dennis Devlin
May 25, 2020
I will always remember my friend and teammate at the University of Wyoming. We had many great times together playing football and laughing. Big Mike was a dedicated hard working man and I looked up to him like a big brother. He is missed and remembered everyday. Love #76 ❤
Dennis Devlin
May 25, 2019
Gone..but never forgotten. I will always remember with love my friendship with Mike. I have his picture on my bulletin board and keep tabs on his children and grand children through Facebook. He was one of a kind. Love ya, Big Man.
June 11, 2013
Judy and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss and the fact that I wasn't able to come to the visitation or celebration of Mike's life.
I saw him last at Sam's and had a wonderful visit with him. He surely loved all of you and talked to me about every one of you with love in his eyes.
I leaned down and hugged and kissed him goodbye, knowing that may be the last time I had a chance to say goodbye and tell him I loved him and loved all of you. My thoughts, prayers, and hugs are with all of you.
He gave a very brave fight! What a guy!
Lots of love to all of you! Marty Johnson
Dick Speights
June 10, 2013
My prayers are with you.
Marilyn Kite
June 9, 2013
Judy and all of Mike's family, Skip and I send all our love and condolences to you all for your loss. He was one of kind and important to all of his friends and family, us included. So many great memories of a man with a big heart. He will live in in ours. Love, Skip and Marilyn
Tom and Brenda Barnett
June 9, 2013
Judy, Bev, Jerry, Cindy, Brenda and families...Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. We loved Mike and all the fun family reunions together. We will miss his gentle kindness and thoughtfulness towards others. May you feel the comfort of Jesus loving arms around you during this difficult time. He will be missed but not forgotten. Love you all!
Scott Kedzior
June 9, 2013
Just heard about the passing of Mike and I would like to extened my deepest sympathy to his family. Mike and I went to Spalding together graduating in 1964.
He will be missed.
Pat & Roger Hampton
June 9, 2013
In the few short years we have known Mike and your family, we have grown to love all of you very much. I especially enjoyed talking to Mike the number of times we chatted and will miss his positive attitude. Our prayers go out to all of you in this time of sadness and grief. I know you will be lonely without Mike, but let God be your comforter and strength.
June 9, 2013
JUDY, BRITTANY AND TO YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY, WE EXTEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY. MIKE WAS A TRUE GENTLEMAN AND A GENTLE GIANT. WE WISH YOU ALL BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES. SINCERELY, JOANIE AND ED PAPIS
Layla Slater
June 8, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of a man who, although I never had the fortune of meeting, raised three amazing children of whom I have grown quite fond over the years. Please know that I am praying for strength and comfort for your entire family and that God would blanket you all with blessings in the times ahead.
Chris Stevens
June 7, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of his passing. Mike was truly the kind of person we should all try to be. I will miss seeing him and talking to him.
Judy Albertson
June 7, 2013
I was so very sad to receive the news of Mike's passing, and so very grateful to have been able to spend some time with him just a few days before. While I'll miss the pontoon rides, pizza and beer outings, and his famous ceasar salad (smile), I mostly will miss the long conversations about family and life. I won't be able to make it on Sunday to participate in the celebration of his life, but will be there in spirit! If you ever need any help with Sunset Bay, do not hesitate to ask...I'd only be too happy to do what I can for the place he loved so much!
Mal wagstaff
June 7, 2013
To the family of Mike, We are so very saddened to hear of the passing of Mike. We knew him in college and he was a spirited young man but always had a special kindness about him. We will miss him at the reunions but know that his influence lives on in his family. Love, Beth and Mal Wagstaff
June 5, 2013
Judy, Chezley and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours in this time of sorrow. Gary and Rosemary Ashby Peoria, Il.
Joseph LaHood
June 5, 2013
Mike was a kind, gentle and caring man. May God give you strength and peace in your time of sorrow.
Joe LaHood Jr.
DICK VELPEL
June 4, 2013
Judy and family. Mike was a great friend and a great man. He will really be missed.
Mary and Dave Hedrick
June 3, 2013
Judy we got word from Josette. Although we have not had contact for a long time, I have always cherished the years we were neighbors and moms with little ones. Know that we are thinking of you and your family. May your grieving be eased by wonderful memories.
Janice Glasper
June 3, 2013
Alyssa, So sorry about your Dad. You and your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Love, Janice
Kate Higgs
June 3, 2013
Lys,
My heart is with you and the rest of your family right now. Memories of family dinners during childhood and trips to the cabin are fresh right now. I love you guys so much.
Hugs and lots of love to all of you.
Alan and Janice Zerfoss
June 3, 2013
Judy, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I have so many fond memories of Mike. So proud to be a teammate of his. What a tough football player. The leader of our "O" line. I admired him so much. Just a great person to be around. He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. All my blessings to you and your family.
Paul and Kathie Toscano
June 3, 2013
Judy, we are deeply saddened by Mike's passing. We have so many fond memories of the times we spent together. We are blessed to have known him. Please know that you and the wonderful family you and Mike created will be in our thoughts and prayers. We look forward to being with you all in September to celebrate the life and legacy of a great Cowboy!
June 3, 2013
Alyssa, keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Goldie
Bob Aylward
June 3, 2013
Judy and Family,Words will only diminish the love and respect I have for Mike.Simply put he was the" best of the best".I don't know anyone who could stand in the face of adversity and pain and maintain his sense of humor and appreciation for each day as Mike did.Judy and kids,you were the love of Mike's life and the driving force that kept him going.May God bless you all.Until we meet again Mike---I love ya buddy.Bob and Jeanne Aylward
June 3, 2013
We mourn the loss of a great teammate and person. Our deepest condolences to all Mike's family. You are in our thoughts.
--Skip Jacobson and Marilyn Kite
Pete Schoomaker
June 3, 2013
Judy, I am deeply saddened to learn of Mike's passing. He was a super teammate and a good man. You and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Danny Ray & Becky Pierce
June 3, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Mike's Family. Mike was a true leader and a great example for the younger teammates and new arrivals. Mike will be missed and his passing hurts for all who new him, but his great smile, his steady guidance, and great humor will never be forgotten.
Tommy Tucker
June 2, 2013
To all of Mikes Family, Loved ones and Friends my sincere sympathy. Mike held a special place in my heart. As a young teammate of his at UW I sought advice from Mike on more than one occasion, and he delivered with poise an grace much like an older brother. He had a genuine concern and always ended by keeping it on the light side, while being sincere. He always had that delightful smile. Mike and family will remain in our prayers.
Joe Giltner
June 2, 2013
To all of Mike's Family and loved one's. My sincere sympathy on reading of Mike passing, I had heard that he was not doing well. I, like anyone who knew him, enjoyed every moment you were with him. I will keep Mike and his family in my thoughts and prayers.
June 2, 2013
Molly, Dayne and family, we are so sorry for the loss of your dad. I know how close your family is and it is never easy. I know from experience that God will heal your broken hearts and you will find peace in the wonderful memories and good times you were able to share with him. Our prayers are with you. Love and prayers always, Bill and Maureen
Howard Grieser
June 2, 2013
One of the Peoria good guys..always spoke always glad to see me. A great representation of Spalding/Academy.
Enjoyed seeing Mike several times at thanksgiving eve at the Shamrock.
Well respected in the community.
Sympathies to all his family and friends...........Gone too soon.
Babette&Tom Frazier
June 2, 2013
Judy & Family, Mike's passing will be felt by many, but none more than by you and your family. We have a special place in our hearts for Mike and will remember always that great smile and caring thoughtfulness. May God Bless you all.
June 2, 2013
Best of the best. He was a mentor to me. We worked out many times in the ole tan bark facility.Not only a great football player but a great person as well.RIP Mike. Bo
Carl N.
June 2, 2013
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Mikes family. I attended Spalding Institute from 1968 to 1972. Two of my cousins were at Spalding while Mike was there and through them I had the honor of meeting Mike several times. All Spalding Alumni are mourning Mikes passing. The legacy he left us with at Spalding will never be forgotten. I know that the late Spalding football coach Merv Haycock and Mike were great friends. I remember the first thing you saw when you walked in to Coach Haycock's office was a life sized picture on the wall behind his desk of Mike in his Rams uniform getting ready to catch a pass.
Jim Stankus
June 2, 2013
Judy & Family, The Cowboy nation will surely miss Mike. He was a key person on the O-line and a Great person. He was always upbeat and truly an inspiration to many on the team. Remember,he will always be in your heart. Jim Stankus & Family
Mimi Tuerk Condon
June 2, 2013
Judy, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to you. Mike was such a great guy & will be sorely missed. I am so glad we were able to reconnect at our last high school reunion @ 10 years ago. God bless you and Mike.
Anita & Kurt Hardy
June 2, 2013
Alyssa so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Melissa (McCarthy) Renski
June 2, 2013
Brittany & family,
My thoughts, prayers, and condolences are with you over your loss.
Patrick Carroll
June 2, 2013
Connie and I were very sorry to read of Mike's passing. Mike was kind to everyone. Our prayers are with his family.
June 2, 2013
My Thoughts and Prayers Are with you Judy ,Your former neighbor H. Dean DeRenzy
June 2, 2013
Dear Judy and family....Our thought and prayers are with you at this difficult time...May you all feel God's loving arms around you as you say goodbye for now..but what a grand reunion there will be one day!!! We are going to be gone so can't come to visitation...will be praying..love you all...you are a special family!!!! Love, Bob and Marge
Cindy Erangey
June 1, 2013
Brenda and family
I am so sorry to see Mike's passing. He was so nice to let us use his cabin one summer. What a generous man and wonderful brother. God Bless and Keep all of you during this hard time.
Heaven Has another Angel.
Cindy, Tony, Anthony and Bridget Erangey
ed ludke
June 1, 2013
thank you cousin mike for thrilling all of us young ones with a visit with you and your teammates on the Rams'.I love you
Karen Crowder (LaHood)
June 1, 2013
Judy, Bev, Jerry, Cindy, Brenda and families,
I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I am thankful that I was able to see and visit with him when I was in Illinois. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time of sorrow. And remember he is in the arms of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
May God bless you all.
Love, Karen
John & Karen Hill
June 1, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
paula & leo Grenier
June 1, 2013
Dayne, Molly & family, Those whom we have loved never really leave us. They live on forever in our hearts and cast their radiant light on our every shadow.
margaret lutes-------stine
June 1, 2013
I send my deepest Sympathy to his family and his friends the Lahoods where friends of my parents for years,
Joe DeWall
June 1, 2013
i knew Mike from St.Patricks grade school. he was always a good guy. i was very sorry to hear of his passing. you have my deepest sympathy.
Bill Harper
June 1, 2013
Very sad about Mike; wonderful friend. We had friendship long ago delivery newspapers, golf caddie, playing football against each other, and weight training, and most of all fun conversation. Forever with me. My prayers to the family.
Bill Harper
Bob & Sharon Caughey
June 1, 2013
Cindy,We wanted to express our sympathy to you & your Family for the loss of your brother Mike. Our thoughts & prayers are with the entire Lahood Family.
Jim Graham
June 1, 2013
Alyssa, Judy and I are so very sorry for your families' loss. Mike was one of the best guys I ever had the pleasure of knowing. He will be greatly missed by all of Peoria.
karen vanwinkle
June 1, 2013
Mike was a wonderful long time friend to many. His loss will be felt by all. Judy, you have my heartfelt sympathy.
Sara Russell
June 1, 2013
Judy, Brittany, and family,
So very sorry for your loss....he gave it a good fight. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
'68 Sugar Bowl reunion
Dennis Devlin
June 1, 2013
Judy and Family,
I extend my deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband & father. Mike was like a big brother to me and I loved him as a brother. I will miss his sense of humor, his knowledge and his friendship. But he did set an example (again) for me on how to handle knowing the end was near, he was the toughest person, but the gentlest person i think I ever knew. I will continue to love the Lahood family and keep my memories of my dearest friend close to my heart. God Bless Mike Lahood.
Claire Guede
June 1, 2013
Mike was such a gentle spirit for such a big guy. We will cherish our friendship and memories of fun times! We love you. Claire, Zach, Matt and Rachel
Dave & Sue Hopper
June 1, 2013
Judy and family we are so sorry for your loss. May God give you peace.
Jon Hangartner
June 1, 2013
Judy,
I am so sorry for your loss. May God hold you in the palm of his hand and give you comfort during this time. Love you and miss you a lot.
Amanda Tomblin
June 1, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Foster
June 1, 2013
Mike was a gentle giant.
I was glad to see him and share some cordial conversation at our class of '64 reunion in November, 2009.
Condolences to his family. Keep all that was good in him alive in you.
Rick & Sue Barnhart
June 1, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the LaHood family at this difficult time in their lives. May the Lord be with you all.
Rick & Sue Barnhart
Joe & Paula Halpin
June 1, 2013
Cindy - May God bless you and your family
at this time of sorrow. Mike was a great
guy with a rare outlook on life.He will
be missed and remembered.
betty jordan/lundgren
June 1, 2013
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
James Guthrie
June 1, 2013
I thought of Mike many times after graduating from Manual H.S., were we played football against one another. He was a Dam Good Football player and a wonderful person!
Lynne Manley
June 1, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the LaHood family during this difficult time. I had the honor to work with Mike through the laborers. He was a wonderful man. His love of his family and his union pride were amazing. Mike's face would light up every time he talked about his family. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Again, my deepest sympathies to you all.
Felicia Rivas Dehn
June 1, 2013
Judy and family my thoughts and prayers are with you. I remember Mike from the Union Hall when I would take my Dad (Ernie Rivas) there he was always so friendly and nice and when my Dad passed away he was very kind and helpful with paperwork and helped with the reception. His kindness will always be appreciated and never forgotten. May your family find peace in knowing that your husband and father was a truly kind and thoughtful man who I am sure touched many lifes.
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