Shannon "Sparky" Michael Hartley
Born: January 8, 1982 in Mendota, IL
Died: September 29, 2025 in Peoria, IL
Shannon Michael Hartley, 43, of Mendota, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, September 29, 2025, at St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois. Born on January 8, 1982, in Mendota IL, he was the beloved son of Mick and Barbara (Shannon) Hartley. Known to many as "Sparky," he carried his nickname as a reflection of his light, energy, and the warmth he brought to those around him.
Sparky will be remembered as a loving brother, son, uncle, friend, and as a kind soul whose warmth and humor touched everyone he met. He graduated from Illinois State University in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, and throughout his life he remained dedicated to his community as a long-time member of both the Mendota Moose Lodge and the Mendota VFW. Sparky cherished the time he spent with his friends and family, creating memories filled with joy, laughter, and love that will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He enjoyed watching sports, playing poker, and shooting pool, and as a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and White Sox, he cheered his teams with unwavering passion and loyalty. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he shared and the light he brought into the lives of those around him.
He is survived by his loving parents, Mick and Barb Hartley of Mendota, IL; his brother, Jesse (Cynthia) Hartley, and their children, Justin, Aiden, and Karina of Montclair, CA; and his sister, Heather (Gregg) Mumm, and their children, Travis and Makenzie of Troy Grove, IL. He is also survived by many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.
Public visitation will be held on Monday, October 6, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Horner-Merritt Funeral Home in Mendota. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, October 7, at 10:00 a.m. at Horner-Merritt Funeral Home, with Deacon Ray Fischer officiating. Burial will follow at Restland Cemetery in Mendota.
Memorial contributions may be made in Sparky's memory to the Mendota Moose Lodge. For the online guestbook and video tribute, please visit
www.horner-merritt.com.
Published by The Mendota Reporter from Oct. 4 to Oct. 8, 2025.