SFC Michael Edward "Ret" Rackers

Michael Edward Rackers was born on June 14, 1953, in Nevada, Missouri, the son of Anthony Rackers and Goldie Irene (Harris) Rackers. As a child, his family relocated to Russellville, Arkansas, where he completed his high school education. After graduating from high school, Michael joined the United States Army. He faithfully served his country for 22 years, retiring in 1993 at the rank of Sergeant First Class. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous awards and commendations. While serving in the military, Michael continued to pursue his education, earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Missouri S&T in Rolla, Missouri. Following his retirement from the Army, Michael chose to settle in Plato, Missouri. Here he built the home that he would share with his wife Elaine for more than 20 years. Michael married Elaine Susanne (Macey) on November 23, 2005 in Houston, Missouri. Together, they created many cherished memories and became beloved members of their community. Michael, an avid collector of guns and knives, loved in spending time outdoors. Fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles, and even mowing his lawn were a few of his passions. His love for motorcycles and his deep respect for veterans led him to become a member of the Patriot Guard Riders. Family was Michael's greatest joys. He cherished every opportunity to gather with loved ones. His witty remarks, sense of humor, and even his quick temper will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Michael left this world on Sunday, September 7, 2025, while a patient at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. He had attained the age of 72 years. Michael is survived by his wife, Elaine Rackers of Plato, Missouri; his daughter, Melissa Rackers of Little Rock, Arkansas; grandchildren, Drs Morgan (JD) Bridgforth and Alex Rackers; great grandchildren Oliver, Macy, and Theo Bridgforth all of Little Rock, Arkansas. Step children Leonard Cuglietta (Tamra) of Lebanon, Missouri, and Sheila Wallace (Ronald) of Licking, Missouri; step-grandchildren, Draven and Abram Cuglietta; Danielle Ice (Matthew), Courtney Carmen, Rachael, Madison, and Chloe Wallace; several step great-grandchildren; two brothers, Anthony "Bud" Rackers of Jefferson City, Missouri, and Bill Rackers (Katie) of Owasso, Oklahoma; brother-in-law, Michael Boswell of Lamar, Arkansas; Mother-in-law Roma Dunk of Dereham, England; brother-in-law Steven (Charlotte) Macey of Hevingham, England and sister-in-law Angela Davidson of Norwich, England; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Michael's family wishes to acknowledge and thank Terry Steier (d. 2005), Teena Fedorchik, Tabitha Fred, and their family for the priceless gift given to Mike through organ donation. A double lung transplant gave his family an additional 20 years of life with him. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Kathy Austin and Phyllis Boswell; sister-in-law, Barbara Rackers; and brother-in-law, Charles Austin. Though he is no longer with us, Michael's devotion to his family and his country will remain in our hearts forever. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in name of Michael Rackers for Lung Transplant to The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, 1001 Highlands Plaza Drive West, Suite 140, St. Louis, MO 63110 OR online at: foundationbarnes.org select "Give Now". Funeral Services will be held Monday, Sept.15, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. in Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Burial with Full Military Honors will follow in Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Waynesville. Visitation will be held Monday from 10 A.M. until service time at 11:30 A.M. in Memorial Chapel.