Michael Lange Obituary

Beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Michael Lange, passed away in Chandler, Arizona on September 21, 2023 at age 72.

Michael was born May 10, 1951 in Moline, Illinois, the son of Wayne and Gloria (Skip) Lange. He married Regina Holly Cassini in 1974 in Rock Island, Illinois. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, their daughter Erin (Matthew) Helm; and two granddaughters he adored.

He earned his bachelor's degree in Speech Education from Augustana College and a master's degree in Speech Pathology from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He served as a speech pathologist for 35 years with Rock Island School District, and he loved working with children. He retired in 2015 but remained passionate about public education.

Michael was an artist in every way. He developed a passion for music at a young age and played in more than half a dozen bands from junior high into adulthood. He continued making music in his retirement, working in his home music room to produce original songs for his family and friends in which he played all the instruments and sang all the parts. He also enjoyed painting, writing and was active in community theater for decades. He was a talented actor but an especially good director. His theater communities included Playcrafters Barn Theatre, where he was a past president; Bettendorf Community Theatre; and Davenport-Marycrest Community Theatre. He co-founded the (short-lived) Rock Island Repertory Theatre as a fundraiser for St. Anthony's Continuing Care Center.

Michael will be remembered for his sharp wit, his love of games and trivia, his signature sense of humor, his endless confidence, and his unparalleled devotion to his family. There was simply no one else like him in the world, and we are grateful he was ours.

There will be no funeral, per his wishes. Anyone who knows Michael knows he would much prefer a party where we tell funny stories and talk about how great he was. Accordingly, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorials in his name may be made to any of the following organizations:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)

American Heart Association (AHA)

American Lung Association

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Quad-City Times from Sep. 27 to Sep. 28, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Lange

10 Entries

Denny Hitchcock

September 21, 2024

Holly,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was one of the really good guys and a very talented man (and from long ago, a good student too.) My deepest condolences.
Denny

Alex J PareigisMD and Lynn Pareigis

October 2, 2023

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Marlene (Zeglin) Lawrence

September 29, 2023

So sorry for your loss we were friends in high school his band played at my sweet sixteen party IBEW hall rock island lost track after school but so glad he had a wonderful family and life somewhere there is an old video of that party wish I knew if it is still around I will keep you in my prayers Marlene(Zeglin) Lawrence

Mary Ewald

September 28, 2023

Dear Holly, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss for you and your family. I know that you loved Mike immensely. Dearest sympathy. Mary Ewald

Denny Hitchcock

September 28, 2023

Gina,
So sorry for your loss. I vividly remember Mike transferring from Blackhawk to Augie for his last 2 years of undergrad work. He was a great guy to be around, levelheaded, very talented and fun. My sympathies to you and your family. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Denny Hitchcock

Mary Lou

September 27, 2023

So sorry for the family´s loss. Michael would enter WJHS office with a funny story and a smile. He made a gray day sunny with his quick humor. RIP Michael.

Aaron Doyle

September 27, 2023

Mike and I were friends for 60 years. We remained in contact with each other, shared stories, philosophized together...and we´re almost as close as brothers. Holly and Erin, I am saddened by your loss and this grief you must endure.

Jerry Mosenfelder

September 27, 2023

My sincere condolences. I was fortunate to see and talk to Mike several years ago. Unfortunately, it was at Dan Cassini´s funeral. While in high school, we are both busy playing music in different bands. Mike was an avid writer and told me he was putting many hours as able into his music. Rest in peace, Michael.

Dave Larry Watson

September 27, 2023

Gina, So sorry to hear about your husband's passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Liz Moon

September 27, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of Michael´s passing. I always loved working with him and looked forward to his stories. Your family will be in my thoughts.

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