Michael E. Cline

Michael "Mike" Eugene Cline, who left this world on February 20, 2025, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital. Born on October 15, 1944, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Robert and Normagene (Enright) Cline, Mike lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
On September 10, 1966, he married the love of his life of 58 years Donna Marie Lishman, and together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and memories that will be cherished forever. She survives along with their children, Michele (Shannon) Kluge and Brian (Melissa) Cline, and five grandchildren, Ashley, Zac, Briana, Jaylee, and Dylan, who were his absolute pride and joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandy Turner and Sally (Barry) Pepper, as well as countless dear fishing buddies, coffee companions, neighbors, and his Florida family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Arlen Turner.
Mike graduated from Sparland High School before attending DeVry Institute in Chicago, Illinois. He dedicated over 30 years of his life to Caterpillar before retiring in 2000. A man with a servant's heart, he also volunteered as a firefighter with the Chillicothe Community Fire Department and spent many years coaching his son's JFL and Rome Little League teams.
Mike had a passion for the simple joys of life - fishing, bowling, and golfing. As a longtime member of Arrowhead Country Club for 53 years, he found solace out on the green. His love for fishing took him on trips to Tennessee and Minnesota, where every trip ended with a garage party and a good old-fashioned fish fry. He and Donna shared a love for NASCAR, especially Dale Earnhardt Sr., which led them to become snowbirds, escaping the Illinois winters for Daytona, Florida, where they cheered on their favorite racers.
But more than anything, Mike's greatest joy in life was being a grandfather. He was always in the stands, on the sidelines, and in the crowd, never missing a single game, performance, or milestone. He believed his most important role in life was to love and spoil his grandchildren, and he did so with a full heart.
Per Mike's wishes, there will be no formal services, but a celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 12pm to 5pm at Arrowhead Country Club in Edelstein. In honor of his memory, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the care of Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Michael, please visit our Tree Store.