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Michael Unruh Obituary
February 5, 1935 - May 3, 2025
Michael B. Unruh, 90, of Forsyth, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025.
"Mike" was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 5th, 1935. He was the son of Paul E. Unruh and Eileen (Bennett) Unruh. His family moved to Davenport, Iowa and later to Essex Fells, New Jersey, where he graduated from Grover Cleveland High School, Caldwell, New Jersey, in 1953.
He attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, where he met his wife of 65 years, Janet "Jan" Suhre. He was a member of Theta Chi Fraternity and graduated with a BS degree in Journalism. He was on the air as a radio co-announcer, providing the color commentary for the Bradley University Braves basketball games in Peoria.
After graduation, he served for three years in the U.S. Army National Guard. Mike enjoyed his position as Regional Director for the Cincinnati Insurance Company, where he was employed for 27 years.
He loved playing golf and won several Central Illinois tournaments. A huge sports fan, he faithfully cheered for the St. Louis Cardinals, the Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Bears, and the Fighting Illini.
He was a big fan of classic movies and watched his favorites countless times. He also enjoyed reading fiction and history, and talking sports with friends and family.
Mike was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Decatur, where he enjoyed serving as an usher.
He is survived by his wife, Jan of Forsyth; son, Mike Jr. of Decatur; daughter, Cathy of Agoura Hills, California; sister Andrea "Andy" Unruh Linde of Erie, Pennsylvania; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Mark; brothers William "Bill" and Paul; and sister, Judith "Judy" Unruh Neely.
A private family service will be held in Hamel, Illinois. Arrangements are being provided by Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Services in Decatur.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
www.stjude.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Unruh
Sponsored by Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home.
3 Entries
John Jaggi
May 21, 2025
Mike was a good friend and a terrific person. I enjoyed the time we spent together getting coffee at Micky D´s. He always looked for the " good" in people and turns out he was filled with it. JJ
Steve Myrvold
May 14, 2025
Mike was a special person and friend. I once heard someone say "I've never met a person that said a negative thing about Mike". I will miss him alot.
Terri Haskins
May 14, 2025
Mike was a prince of a guy. Bill and I enjoyed his and Jan's friendship for many years, and neighbors as well.
We had so many laughs together. I will always miss those times. Love you, Mike.
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Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home2091 North Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL 62526
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