Michael H Gifford

He was born May 28, 1963 in Alton to Robert Earl and Eleanor Marie (Fortschneider) Gifford.

Surviving are his mother, Eleanor Gifford of Pekin; one son, Joe (Christi) Patterson of Pekin; two grandchildren, Jayci Patterson and Carter Patterson; five sisters, Bev (Larry) Martin, Karen (DuWayne) Ranney, and Judy Kennell, all of Pekin, Mary (Rod) Dalton of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Elaine (Jeff) Cannon of Pinetops, North Carolina; one brother, Robert (Lynn) Gifford of Pompano Beach, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

His father preceded him in death.

He was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin.

Mike enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

His funeral will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2008at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel, where visitation will be two hours before the funeral. Father Patrick Fixsen will officiate. Cremation will be accorded following the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his grandchildren's education fund in care of Heartland Bank.