Michael James Staufenbiel age 72 of Rockford Illinois passed away November 3rd 2021. He was born in Chicago Illinois on October 5th, 1949. Michael graduated from Wheeling High School. Michael had a career as a Police Officer and Sergeant for the City of Wheeling Illinois, which he received multiple commendations including being shot while on duty. He later served as a Police Officer in Castle Rock Colorado.
He was an avid fisherman who mainly fished for crappies and walleyes in Wisconsin and Lake Kabetogama Minnesota. His favorite sports teams were the Atlanta Braves, Detroit Lions and the University of Michigan football team. He was interested in the Civil War and researching his family history. One of his favorite things to do was sitting with a Coke in his hand, eating M&M’s and cheering on his favorite sport teams. The one thing that brought him the most joy was being around his family talking and laughing about the good old days.
He is preceded in death by his son Michael (Andy) Staufenbiel and his parents Elmer and Morelle Staufenbiel. He is survived by his daughter Laurie (Dave) Moore, Laurie’s mother (Deborah Staufenbiel), Grandchildren Erin and Amy Payne, Michael Paul and Isabella Staufenbiel, sister Joan Bellamy, brother Russ (Kathy) Staufenbiel, his nieces and nephews Tricia (Greg) Vanover, Michael Bellamy, Danny, Jenny, Rachael Staufenbiel, and Natalie (Hadyn) Cortez.
The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Joseph Lange, Dr Nameer Mardini, the UW Onocology Department, Promedica/Heartland Hospice team for the help, assistance and caring throughout his life.
A visitation for Michael will be held Thursday, November 18, 2021 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, Illinois 61115, followed by a Memorial Service to celebrate Michael's life at 7:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com for the Staufenbiel family.
