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Michael Raridon Obituary
Atty. Michael "Mike" W. Raridon, 63, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away peacefully at the Cleveland Clinic on Wednesday, May 1, 2019, from complications following a bilateral lung transplant. Mike was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on November 14, 1955, to parents Wade and Rosemary (Jenkins) Raridon. He grew up in Youngstown, Ohio, and attended Chaney High School where he was active in the tour choir, cross country track team, and performed the lead roles in several of the school's spring musicals. He was a 2-year member of the National Honor Society, earned a National Merit Scholarship his senior year, and was salutatorian of his graduating class in 1974.
Mike began his formal education at Oberlin College; he did his post-graduate studies and earned his juris doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis. Upon receiving his license to practice he moved to Rockford, Illinois, where he began a successful family law career which lasted almost forty years, until he was forced to retire due to his illness. Mike dedicated his professional life to serving others, in particular and most recently, as advocate for hundreds of children who became caught in the legal processes of divorce and/or guardianship cases each year.
He was a natural performer and Mike loved sharing jokes, stories, and his musical talents with others. Music was always a part of his life and he was not only an accomplished singer but he also played guitar, banjo, piano, and violin. True to his Scots-Irish heritage he formed several Irish music groups with colleagues and friends in the Rockford area - the beautiful sounds of Casey's Fancy will live long in the hearts and memories of their many fans.
In accordance with Mike's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no calling hours or services. Material tributes may be sent to Cleveland Clinic's Lung Transplant Program, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio, 44195. Please consider honoring Mike's memory by giving the gift of life - become an organ donor.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Raridon
Val Gunnarsson
January 9, 2020
I just saw this when I was looking for Mike. I was shocked. I had no idea there was any trouble. I had not seen Mike in several years, but I worked with him in the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office and always considered him an excellent lawyer, a great friend, and a truly good person. I am so sorry. Val Gunnarsson
Robin Eckhardt
June 28, 2019
I was so saddened to see about Attorney Raridon's passing and send condolences to his family for their loss. Attorney Raridon helped me to finalize my daughter's adoption about 8 years ago and was so incredibly kind and gracious. He celebrated with us and was an important part of our special day. I will always remember him fondly and be incredibly grateful for his help. May he rest in peace. Robin & Family
Kathleen Sanfrey
May 18, 2019
I'm so sorry for your loss.
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Kathi Anderson
May 16, 2019
I was an official court reporter for over 39 years, and Mike and I worked together for much of that time. I always enjoyed being in the same courtroom with him. Mike was a very intelligent man, served his clients well, and possessed so much compassion...and humor! We had a lot of good talks through the years about life and family. I was so happy for his retirement and that he could take it a little easier especially considering his health issues. My deepest condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed.
Daniel Torrisi
May 15, 2019
Mike and I were friends for many years until I left the practice of law. When we weren't working together, I would frequently visit him at his office where we talked of many subjects and did a lot of laughing. Unfortunately we lost track off each other in the subsequent years. I am deeply saddened by the news of his passing. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.
May 15, 2019
May your cherished memories give you strength with the comfort God gives Jeremiah 29:11
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