Michael J Molitor

Michael J. Molitor, 70, formally of Galena, passed on September 7, 2023. He was born in Hazel Green, Wisconsin on May 2, 1953 to George and Donna (Davis) Molitor.

He married Peggy Reynolds in 1974, whom he playfully called, "Runt." Together, they would have two daughters, Georgia (Jason Peacock) of Denton, Texas, and Megan (Matt Eberhart) of Galena. Peggy would tragically precede him in death in 1987.

He would become a beloved grandfather to Dorienne Molitor, who shares both his stubbornness and love of animals.

Later, he married Sheila Hesselbacher and became a stepfather to Bryan, Greg, and Heather Fitting. He and Sheila would settle in Bolivar, Missouri.

Affectionately called, "Willard," he would grow up in a large family on the,"Hill," that included brothers Jerry, Ken, Tim (Vicky), Tony and Donald and sister Donna Jeanne (Jon Gabric). Also, closely connected to many aunts and uncles and a multitude of Molitor, Davis, and Goerdt cousins. And in time, numerous nieces and nephews.

He was not always a man of a lot of words, but he expressed his love in generosity and service. There are fond memories of him taking all the Molitor cousins on the, "Hill," for long rides or to the movies and plying them with popcorn and soda. That is how we hope he is remembered.

As a Dad, "I love you's" seemed difficult, along with affection. We learned to meet him at his level. As young girls, we happily rode along with him on trips to RJ's junk yard and quickly learned to talk his love language, which was cars. He was always loved dearly and will be missed by us.

Mike worked as a mechanic in the Galena area and had a special love and knowledge of vintage cars. His work would connect him to many lifelong friends in Galena.

Services will be determined. He was preceded in death by parents George and Donna. First wife, Peggy. Brothers Ken and Donald. And his only sister, Donna Jeanne. Also, sister in law, Sandie Molitor.