Michael Gerard "Mike" Moran's Obituary
Mt. Zion - Michael Gerard "Mike" Moran, 61, of Mt. Zion, Illinois, passed away August 8, 2024, at home surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer.
He was born in Decatur, Illinois, to Joe and Carolyn (Weiler) Moran on April 13, 1963. He grew up in Decatur with his two brothers and two sisters. He attended St. Teresa High School (class of 1981). Mike loved playing football, including winning a state championship in 1979. He ended his high school career as an all-conference, all-city cornerback.
In 1983, Mike began a successful 41-year career at Decatur Custom Tool, Inc., in Decatur, where he made strong and lasting friendships with a company that treated him like family.
In 1986, Mike married the love of his life, Kaye (Winkleblack) and had two outstanding sons, Ryan (Kendra) and Nathan (Rachel). Mike's children and grandchildren, Kaydence, Ainsley, Maverick and Madison, were his pride and joy, and Kaye was his true companion. They gave him strength during the rough times and laughter and joy all of the time.
Mike was an avid hunter who enjoyed spending time in the woods with his boys, brothers, nephews, and close friends to share his hobby. Mike was a 25-year member of the Decatur Gun Club where he spent many weekends skeet shooting. After coaching his own boys in football, Mike continued coaching as a volunteer with the
"Little Dawgs" where he mentored countless young athletes while teaching them the fundamentals of football.
Mike was an exemplary model of faith and integrity to all who knew him. Mike accepted new challenges with courage and strength. He had very strong values and was well liked by everyone, mostly due to his positive attitude and unwavering faith. Mike had incredible patience, and always made time to help others.
His legacy will carry on forever reminding us that we control our attitudes. We would like to thank all our dear family and close friends for the years of prayer and support as Mike so valiantly fought his disease.
Visitation will be Friday, August 16, 2024, from 4pm to 7pm at the Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. Funeral service celebrating his life will be 3pm, Saturday, August 17, 2024, at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
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