Michael Maxey

WAPELLA - Michael "Mike" Paul Maxey, 76, of Wapella passed away peacefully on Monday (Nov. 11, 2024) at home surrounded by family.

Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home is in charge.

Mike was born Jan. 27, 1948, in Sullivan, Ind., the son of Paul G. and Marcella Maxey. 

He is survived by his wife of 11 years, Shirlie (Bell) Maxey; a daughter, Angie (Karl) Karduck of Farmer City; his sons, Doug (Ellen) Maxey of Gibson City and Nick Maxey of Roberts; stepsons, Christopher Lafontaine of LeRoy, Andrew Lafontaine of Wapella and Brian (Ashley) Tucker of Wapella; a wealth of grandchildren, Kaeleb Carr, Max Karduck, Audrey Maxey, Wrigley Maxey, Cole Maxey, Carson Maxey, Will Tucker, Eli Tucker, Rowan Lafontaine, Seth Lafontaine and Kaitlyn Pistorius; his brother, Randy Maxey of Chatham; a sister, Chris Maxey of Oak Brook; a brother-in-law, Michael (Celeste) Deshasier of Appleton, Wis.; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, David Maxey; a sister, Diane (Maxey) Deshasier; a sister-in-law, Cheri (Bayles) Maxey; and a niece and nephew.

Mike graduated as a proud Mustang of Paxton High School in 1966. He continued his educational career at Wabash Valley Junior College in Mount Carmel, where he graduated in 1968. Mike was then called to enlist in the Illinois National Guard, where he served from 1968 to 1974. Mike was a businessman at heart and knew the value of a dollar. He believed in a firm handshake and your word, as this meant something to people in rural Ford County. He retired after nearly 30 years working at Roberts State Bank, ending there as vice president.

Mike never shied away from a good time. He enjoyed life and especially socializing with friends and family. If it was looking for a fourth person to join a euchre table or asking someone to "rack 'em up" to play a game of pool, Mike was there. If you had a quarter for the ole jukebox, you better play some classic country music, because he's going to want to hear some Jones! When you did get that music going, he would gracefully carry a tune. He was always the first to be singing along to his favorite songs, and he loved karaoke. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting for deer, fishing and shooting some skeet. He also loved a good western movie or TV show, as they don't make them like that anymore! He especially loved spoiling his grandkids by making the best darn French toast, hands down! For those who were lucky enough to have met him, we will miss his infectious personality, ornery sense of humor and genuine love of a good time.

In lieu of a visitation and funeral, Mike has chosen for his family to have a private celebration of life. At a later date, there will be a public celebration of life for those who would like to pay their respects, tell a story or two, sing a song or just talk about your experiences with Mike.

The family would ask that no monetary donations or flowers be sent but to donate your time to a cause to bring positivity to someone or your community and spread joy in any way possible, just as Mike made others joyful in his presence.

Thank you, and God bless.