Rev. Francis "Mike" Michels

He was born March 20, 1929 in the family farm home near Albion, Illinois to Frank and Harriet (Holt) Michels. He married Earline Sanders on August 29, 1952 at Phillipstown Methodist Church near Crossville, Illinois, and she survives.

Reverend Michels was a minister for the Methodist Faith, and retired in 1995 from St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield. He also pastored in several communities in the former Southern Illinois Conference. He was a Rotary Club member for 55 years, having perfect attendance at the meetings. He was the first Rotarian to be appointed as an Assistant Governor. He was a member of the St. Timothy United Methodist Church, and enjoyed ministering with the children of the church. He also enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and landscaping.

He is survived by his wife Earline; a daughter, Linda (Robert) Noland of Maryville, Illinois; two grandchildren: Katie Lee and Leanne Marie Noland; and a great-granddaughter, Claire Marie Devany. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven Michels; and four brothers: Vernon, Virgil, James, and Allen Michels.

Funeral service will be held Friday, October 14, 2016 at 11 a.m. at St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield, with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church. A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 15 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Zion Cemetery near Albion. Friends and family are asked to go directly to the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Preachers Aid Society and Benefit Fund, PO Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794-9207.

Fond memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.ingramfh.net.

Ingram Funeral Home of Albion is honored to be entrusted with the local arrangements.