George Michael Ansted

George Michael Ansted
After a courageous battle with cancer, George "Mike" Ansted passed away On November 2, 2022 at the age of 69. He was born on October 22, 1953 in Chicago, IL. He later moved to Joliet, IL and resided there for 42 years.
He was a devoted family man who was always there for his wife and children. He bragged about them to everyone he met and was always so proud of everything they did. He adored his young grandchildren, Andrew and Natalie, both of whom brought an extra sparkle to his eyes.
Mike was a butcher for almost half a century. He worked for Jewel, Cub Foods, Ultra Foods and Casey's Finer Foods. He retired in 2019 as the meat manager of Fresh Thyme Market in Joliet. During his long career, Mike won numerous awards for both his skills and his excellent customer service. He took pride in everything he did. Mike was loved by many and a friend to anyone he met. He enjoyed people and knew how to make them feel special.
Mike enjoyed fishing, kayaking, biking, and family camping trips. He was a diehard Chicago Bears fan with a love of football that started back in grammar and high school where he played running back on the school teams. He enjoyed traveling and loved to cook and make wine. He had a genuine love of family, friends, great food and good conversations.
Surviving is Gayle, his beloved wife of 47 years, and their two daughters, Sarah (Zachary) Pucel of Shorewood (parents of Andrew and Natalie) and Kelly (David "Shaggy") Meharg of Joliet; Mike's sister, Judith Schultz; and his brother Robert, (Kathy) Ansted.
Also surviving is his father-in-law who loved him as a son, Bernard Aguirre; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jim Aguirre, Michelle "Mickey "Aguirre, Jean (David) Keating, Linda Aguirre, Chuck Aguirre, Andrea "Andy" Aguirre, Bernie Aguirre, Maria Aguirre, Vincent (Cory) Aguirre and Kristina "Krissy" Gavrilenka; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George Washington Ansted and Mary Catherine (Corcoran) Ansted; and his mother-in-law, Barbara (Shworles) Aguirre who loved him as a son.
A Memorial Gathering for Mike Ansted will be held Saturday, November 12, 2022 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., at the Fred C, Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet. There is a Celebration of Life being planned for in July of 2023. Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Cancer Society would be appreciated. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com