Michael C. Persson

Although he accomplished much of which to be so proud, Michael Persson counted the children and grandchildren he shared with the love of his life to be both his greatest accomplishment and his most precious gift. He was a man who was large in stature, yet he has been described as a gentle giant who would do anything for anyone. A more devoted father would be hard to find as his children proudly proclaim that they have the world’s greatest Dad without question. Michael was thoughtful and kindhearted in his every thought, word, and deed, providing us all with a shining example to aspire for. Taken from those he loved much too soon, he will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

The fifties were a vibrant time in America with changes that were transforming the cultural fabric of our nation. This was the decade that introduced us to the sounds of rock ‘n roll and legends like Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis while Barbie dolls and blue jeans were the latest craze. With televisions becoming part of homes from coast to coast in record numbers, the American family was never the same after meeting the Cleavers and a dog named Lassie. Nestled within this vibrant time was the year 1955 that brought great anticipation to one young family from East St. Louis, Illinois, as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of a new baby. Baby Michael was welcomed into the world by his parents, Frank and Ruby Persson, on January 11, 1955.

In many ways Michael experienced a childhood that was rather typical for the youth of his generation while taking in the turbulence of the sixties and the carefree attitudes of the seventies firsthand. Ready to take on all the world has to offer as a young man, Michael eagerly embarked on the next phase in his life’s journey.

Life was forever changed for Michael when he made the acquaintance of the young girl with whom he would share the best years of his life. Her name was Pamela Evans, and to say it was love at first sight is a bit of an understatement as the couple became engaged after just one month. With a desire to build a life together, Michael and Pamela were married one year later on August 14, 1976, at Saint John United Church of Christ in Kankakee, beginning a new chapter in a love story that would span more than 35 years. The couple remained deeply in love throughout the rest of Michael’s life and were never apart. They named Jim Croce’s song, “Time In A Bottle,” as their song, and it always held such special meaning to them. Together they were blessed with three children who were the light of his life: Michael, Melissa, and Nicholaus.

In order to support his family Michael worked hard. The bulk of his career was spent as the service manager at Terry’s Ford in Peotone.

Work was certainly a necessary part of Michael’s life, but it was his time away from work that he truly treasured. He was into so many different things, and several of his interests involved spending time with the family he adored. Michael was a gifted craftsman who was an extraordinary woodworker. Through the years he made cradles for all seven of his grandsons in addition to cribs and changing tables, and he also made an entire room of bookshelves for his wife. Michael was an avid motorcyclist and enjoyed flying remote control helicopters. Around the house he was a true handyman who could seemingly fix anything including both small jobs and huge projects as well.

Throughout his life Michael and Pam modeled what marriage is truly intended to be. They loved being together and were rarely apart, and Michael always looked so forward to spending time with his wife on the weekends. Every vacation he took was with his wife as well. Deeply in love, the couple renewed their vows on their 25th wedding anniversary.

As all who knew Michael can attest, he lived an active lifestyle. He enjoyed playing basketball every Sunday with his buddies in Peotone, and he was a member of the local YMCA where he went to exercise on a regular basis. When his children were younger Michael was an active part of their lives, too. Through the years he served as their Little League coach, their basketball coach, and also as their softball coach.

A man of compassion with a spirit of generosity, Michael Persson, Sr. made a significant impact in the lives of so many around him. He continually put the needs of others ahead of his own with ease and would willingly help those around him no matter the personal sacrifice. When it came to his family, Michael worked hard to provide for their every need and want as they were his most cherished gift. Called a “gentle giant” not only in stature but also in soul, his absence will be deeply felt while his memory will remain forever near and dear to the hearts of many.

Michael C. Persson, Sr. of Kankakee, IL died on Tuesday, January 10, 2012, at Provena St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. Michael is survived by his wife, Pamela of Kankakee; children, Dr. Michael (Kelly) Persson, Jr. of Herscher, IL, Melissa (James) Martin of Kankakee, and Nicholaus (Anne) Persson of Manteno, IL; seven grandchildren, James and Noah Martin of Kankakee, Lucas, Isaac, and Parker Persson of Herscher, IL, and Branden and Cameron Persson of Manteno, IL; and two very special friends, Steven (Pam) Miskell of Wilmington, IL and Ray (Rena) Mullins of Bourbonnais, IL. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Adolph and Madalyn Evans. A memorial gathering will take place on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 2 p.m. at Schreffler Life Story Funeral Homes Kankakee Chapel. In Lieu of flowers memorials to the family would be appreciated. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or sign the online guestbook.