Michael Jon Trainer

Born June 30, 1948 in Vandalia to William and Jackie (Ward) Trainer, he married Terri Throop on June 21, 1989. She survives.

Also surviving are his mother; four children, Tina (Isaac) Davis of Manito, Paul (Morgan) Trainer of Edwards, Jacob (Sierra) Trainer and Allison (Drew) Livengood, both of Manito; 10 grandchildren, Brittany (Devon) Skinner, Ross Davis, Brayden Trainer, Wyatt Trainer, Kallie Trainer, Olivia Livengood, Stetson Trainer, Harlow Trainer, Julia Livengood and Harper Trainer; one great-granddaughter, Brooklynn Skinner; three siblings, Robert (Donna) Trainer of Oskaloosa, Kansas, Kathy (Thomas) Burns of Pocahontas and Joe (Susan) Trainer of Albany, Missouri; several nieces and nephews and his three loyal companions, his hound dog, Red Dog and his two Frenchies, Kricket and Buggles.

He was preceded in death by his father, one grandson, Bryant Livengood; paternal grandparents, Frank and Hazel (Morgan) Trainer; maternal grandparents, Ralph and Beulah (Carter) Ward; his beloved Mule and friend, Bob and his Tortoise, George.

Mike was a self-employed truck driver for 45 years, retiring in 2017.

Born a farmer, Mike loved taking care of animals. He loved seeing his animals thrive and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren everything he knew about them. He enjoyed a lifetime of raising, loving and training dogs and liked making cheese from milk produced by his goats.

He loved his family fiercely and also loved to joke around. He was known for his stories and could strike up a conversation with anyone.

Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. A gathering of remembrance will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Illinois CancerCare Foundation, 8940 Wood Sage Road, Peoria, Illinois 61615.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com