Larry M. "Mike" Giacomelli

Larry M. “Mike” Giacomelli, known to family and friends as Mike, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital, in Springfield, IL, after a lengthy hospitalization due to a traumatic brain injury. Mike was born May 9, 1945, in West Frankfort, IL, the son of Marcellino and Vera Lou (Sweetin) Giacomelli, who both preceded him in death. Mike married the love of his life, Marie A. Vincenti, on June 22, 1973, and she survives, cherishing happy memories of their blessed life together.

Also surviving Mike are his siblings, Jean (Richard) Pierce, of Daniel Island, SC, and Steve (Vicki) Giacomelli and Tammy (Shawn) Hutchinson, both of Johnston City, IL; nephews, Philip Giacomelli (Timm Gann), Michael (Irum) Pierce, and Karter Hutchinson; nieces, Whitney Pierce and Abigail (Ben) Rooper; great-nephews, Wilson Giacomelli and Joseph Pierce Moquin; great-nieces, Madeline Marie Jenkins, Maya Ahmad Pierce, and Tilly-Jean Pierce Moquin; and sister, Mary Kay (Melvin) Shadowens and daughters of Scottsdale, AZ.

Mike attended Johnston City, IL schools, graduating with the JCHS Class of 1963. He completed an associate degree at Southern Illinois University - Carbondale and earned a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement administration from Western Illinois University. He was also a graduate of the Northwestern University Traffic Institute’s School of Police Staff and Command.

Mike proudly served his country in the U.S. Army 101st Airborne division in Vietnam. His passion for law enforcement as a public servant led to a career that spanned nearly 40 years. His early service as an officer was with his hometown police department, the Army military police, and SIU-C campus police. Mike joined the Illinois State Police in 1972 as a Trooper – Badge #1861 and retired in 1998 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, serving as an Assistant Deputy Director. In retirement he worked as a court security officer with the U.S. Marshall Service and as a volunteer for the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation.

Mike was a friendly, generous, thoughtful man with a one-of-a-kind sense of humor and a library of stories. He prioritized his physical fitness and time with family and friends. He treasured time spent at home with his furry friend, Louie, by his side. He loved cars (keeping his sparkling clean), enjoyed caring for the lawn, and helping others.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to services. A memorial gathering will be held Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A memorial service will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by burial with military honors at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Animal Protective League, Central Illinois Food Bank, ISP Heritage Foundation, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.