Michael R. Stasiak, lovingly known as "Stash," age 62, of Utica, IL, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2024, at 7:25 PM, surrounded by his loving family and friends at Rockford Medical Center. He was born on March 11, 1962, in Peru, IL, to Robert and Darlene (Roebuck) Stasiak.
On January 22, 1983, he married the love of his life, Araceli. Michael was a funny, loving, and gentle soul who dedicated his life to his family. He had an infectious laugh, a beaming personality, and a generous, selfless heart. Michael never complained and was a protector and provider, always ensuring the well-being of those he loved. His wife and son were his world, and he was a great friend to many. He had a special love for his dog Lola, looked up to his Uncle Ray, and adored his parents.
Michael was proud to be part of the football team at LaSalle-Peru High School that took 2nd place in the state in 1977, 1978, and 1979. He graduated in 1980 and went on to attend Illinois Valley Community College, where he met his wife, Araceli. He was a devout fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox, and he loved watching sports with his son Clifford. He was also an avid fan of Clint Eastwood movies and SciFi TV shows. Michael was never quite the same after the loss of his beloved son, Clifford.
Michael’s career in the construction management industry spanned over 40 years, working as a Senior Construction Manager across various sectors, including agricultural, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and power plants. His attention to detail and foresight made him a leader in his field. He mentored the younger generation and shared his deep knowledge of construction with peers and management alike. For Michael, success was about succeeding as a team, and he loved people and collaboration.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Stasiak; his Uncle Raymond Stasiak; and his son, Clifford Stasiak. He is survived by his loving wife, Araceli Stasiak (Falcon); his mother, Darlene Stasiak of Peru; his cousin, Carol Hervatic of San Diego; his mother-in-law, Maria Gonzalez of Spring Valley; his brother-in-law, Hugo Gonzalez, and his daughter, Sophia Gonzalez; his brother-in-law, Carlos Falcon, and his children with Joanie: Tony Falcon, Lorena Falcon-Mason (Kameron), Marco Falcon, Elayna Falcon-Fehr (Kendall); and his sister-in-law, Teyilda Ramirez-Rocha (Javier) and their children: David, Dayte, and Javier Jr. Ramirez-Rocha.
Per Michael’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 5, at 1:00 PM at Burgess Funeral Home in LaSalle, with visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for his favorite charities. Online condolences may be expressed at www.burgessfh.com.
Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
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