Michael Cremeens

Michael Cremeens
Died: March 22, 2025 in Hot Springs, AR
Michael William Cremeens was born in Joliet, Illinois on May 6, 1949. He went to our Lord March 22, 2025, on his mom's birthday.
First and foremost, Mike was a family man. He loved his daughter Michelle and was so proud of the woman, mother, wife, and grandma she has become.
Mike was a lifelong Cubs, Bears fan and Horse Race enthusiast. His last home was in Hot Springs Arkansas so, of course, he cheered on the Razorbacks along with his home State the Illini. Mike could light up a room with his quick wit and friendly manner.
Mike was an avid hiker and loved to explore Illinois fields and riverbanks for Native American Artifacts. (with permission) He would bring his grandchildren with him and give them each small backpack so they could collect rock treasures.
He was a naturalist, loved gardening, the outdoors and was active in preserving nature. One of his most passionate hobbies was raising and releasing Monarch butterflies. He planted the only host plant that Monarchs use, milkweed. He had taught many how to preserve and help the Monarchs survive.
Mike was an alumnus of Joliet Catholic High School and Southern Illinois University with a bachelor's in social work and a master's degree in criminal justice.
Mike spent most of his career improving and advancing education in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Mike is credited with innovative and quality programs that provided skills that were needed for success after incarceration.
Mike is survived by his daughter Michelle Morgan (Jay), four grandchildren, Dustin Conroy, Dylan (Nicole) Lammers, Dallas (Taylor) Lammers and Sydney Morgan and three great grandchildren Jameson, Brinley and Camron
Mike is also survived by his brother Jim Cremeens (Judy), Sisters Mary Mudron (Marty), Maureen Cercone (late Thomas) and Kathy Johnson.
Mike is also survived by nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and too many best friends and neighbors to name.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Clarence, brothers, Thomas Edward, Richard Joseph and Timothy John Cremeens.
Mike could be the calm in the storm or the life of the party. He loved his family and friends and in turn, he was cherished by so many.
Donations to:
Samaritan Ministries
131 Sanford Street
Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
Samaritanhs.org/donate
There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Mike's remains will be cremated in accordance with Mike's wishes
Irish Blessing:
May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hod you in the palm of His hand.
The online obituary, guestbook, and memorial tribute are available at www.GrossFuneralHome.com.