Michael John Brahler

Michael “Mike” was born on August 9, 1968 in Champaign, IL, the son of James Edward and Irene Lenore (Butcher) Brahler.

He attended Blessed Sacrament Grade School and graduated from Griffin High School in 1986 before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois Springfield. He was self-employed with Concrete Coatings Revival.

Mike was magnetic with a disarming, megawatt smile. He was vibrant and passionate about his many interests. Whether it was his impeccable taste in music, a movie that made him laugh, a workout program that was part of his physical fitness or his strong faith in God, Mike loved including others in his latest interests and hobbies.

Mike was a loyal friend with an unmatched capacity for empathy. He could identify the pain and loneliness in others and make them feel understood and valued. His sense of humor and quick wit helped people laugh in seemingly impossible circumstances. He was protective of those he loved and unafraid to step up when many would want to back away.

Mike loved with his entire heart. He was a devoted father who showed how to care for a child through every joy and hardship with faith, integrity, laughter and unconditional love. He was a big brother figure and a trusted source of guidance and inspiration for his many nieces and nephews. And with his own siblings, he was the cherished baby brother who was part of their households and their very best friend.

Mike was a shelter in a time of storms. He was a bright light for countless people in their darkest times. He is deeply and forever loved.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his daughter, Samantha Elizabeth, in 2005; and his parents.

He is survived by his four siblings, James “Mark” (wife, Lisa) Brahler of Springfield, Michele (husband, James “Jim”) Reavy of Springfield, David (wife, Elizabeth) Brahler of New Berlin, and Denise (husband, Marty) Vespa of Springfield; 21 nieces and nephews; Samantha’s mother, Mary Elizabeth Smith of Arizona; his beloved dog, Luca, and her sisters, Sugar and GiGi; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4 until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 23, 2021, at the Jim Belz Gymnasium on SHG West Campus, 1601 W. Washington Street., Springfield. The Memorial Gathering will begin with a prayer service and words of remembrances at 3:45 p.m.

Funeral Mass: 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence Avenue, Springfield with Rev. Dominic Vahling, celebrant. Private family burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Martin de Porres Center, P.O. Box 2571, Springfield, IL 62708-2571.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.