Michael D. Chism Sr.

Born March 18, 1948 in Bloomington to Olen Dee and Emma Mary Bell (Snow) Chism, he married Charlene Power on August 10, 1996 in Pekin.

Surviving are his wife and his children, Michael D. (Terri) Chism, Jr. of Metamora, Jamie P. McDougall and Jennifer M. Chism – Soneck, both of Pekin; two stepdaughters, Bridget Whitten-Shane and Tara (Matt) Roberts, both of Peoria; eight grandchildren, Isaiah D. Chism, Claire D. Chism, Elijah M. Chism, all of Metamora, Kathleen E. McDougall, Molly M. McDougall, both of Pekin, Izabella V. Alvis of Pekin, Jeremy A. (Baylee) Backus, Jr. of Macomb and Solomon O. Soncek of Pekin; three step-grandchildren, Justin Mills of Peoria, Hannah Shane, Zachary Shane, both of Peoria; three great-grandchildren and one brother, Jack W. (Elizabeth) Chism of Lafayette, Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one infant brother, Robert Lynn Chism

A 1966 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Michael attended Western Illinois University and Illinois Central College.

Michael, a Vietnam Veteran, served in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972 as a Czech Linguist stationed in Germany.

Michael worked for the United States Postal Service at the Pekin Post Office as a letter carrier for 38 years, retiring in 2011.

He served on the Tazewell County Government Employees Credit Union Board of Directors for several years.

He was a former deacon and youth leader at Calvary Baptist Church in Pekin.

Michael enjoyed history, photography, watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball, playing golf, singing in the choir, reading and dancing with his wife. He also enjoyed camping, boating, being in nature and traveling.

His private service and inurnment will be held Friday, June 14, 2024 at Resurrection Mausoleum in Peoria. Military rites accorded by the United States Air Force and the Tazewell Military Rites Team. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

We would like to thank all of his caregivers including the Visiting Angels, OSF hospital staff and OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home staff.

Memorial contributions may be made to Parkinson's Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131.

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