Michael "Mike" Marshall Dirksen

Michael “Mike” Dirksen, age 65, of Springfield, IL passed away June 29, 2026, in Charleston, IL, volunteering for Samaritan’s purse doing tree work for tornado relief efforts when he went into cardiac arrest.

He was born on September 2, 1960, in Springfield, IL, the son of Marshall “Mike” and Barbara (Rimkus) Dirksen.

Mike graduated from Lanphier High School, class of 1978. As part of the mayor's campaign to get Springfield certified as a tree City USA, Mike Dirksen was commissioned to become Springfield, Illinois first City Arborist. He retired from the City of Springfield after working there for almost 40 years.

Mike had so many interests throughout his life which included martial arts, kickboxing, mountain biking, motorcycle riding, rock climbing, camping, fishing, volunteering and all things trees including arboriculture, tree work, tree climbing competitions, and tree safety training. These interests took him all over the world where he met so many people and touched so many lives. Mike didn’t know a stranger.

He loved singing, being goofy, and making people laugh. He was described by those who knew him well as “one of a kind”. His adventurous spirit, passion, and love of friends and family were truly unmatched.

Mike was always willing to volunteer his time and vast knowledge and experience. He served on the board of the Illinois Arborist Association for many years. Mike was sought out by many in the tree industry for his vast knowledge. He loved to help train and educate others. He worked with many companies including North American Training Solutions, Sherrill Tree, and BRANT, in addition to helping as a climber with tree companies, not only in his hometown, but also Puerto Rico and Louisiana to name a couple.

He did tree research in California where he climbed to the tops of the tallest trees in the world, the redwoods. He was also part of a climate change research team in Costa Rica’s cloud forest. He went on motorcycle tours around the world where he made many amazing memories and life-long friends.

But of all the adventures he had in his life his greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren Dakota and Clint. He always looked forward to his yearly family ski trips and loved family vacations. One of his favorite recent memories was his family vacation to Maui, HI, in December of 2025, where he surfed with his grandchildren.

Faith was an important part of Mike’s life. He believed in the love of Jesus and left this earth volunteering in his name, doing what he loves serving people through tree work.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Barbara and Marshall “Mike” Dirksen.

Mike is survived by his wife, Linda Dirksen; children, Alicia Dirksen and Michael (Abbey) Dirksen; grandfather of the joys of his life, Dakota and Clint Dirksen; sisters, Michelle Dirksen and Lisa Dirksen; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

Cremation is being provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

Donations in Mike’s name can be made to Samaritan’s Purse.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.

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