Mike Dillard, 78, of Granite City, Illinois passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
He was born February 4, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, a son of the late Billy Joseph and Thelma (Julian) Dillard.
He married Juanita Marie (Loerch) Dillard on July 24, 1987, in Granite City and she survives.
He retired after over 50 years of service in heating and cooling and was the owner and operator of Domestic and Commercial Sheet Metal. The United States Army veteran proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was the recipient of two Purple Hearts and many other medals, ribbons and recognitions. He was a faithful member of Harvest Community Church in Granite City where he served as a deacon. He was the founder of Veterans for Life Ministry and was known for his bountiful garden through the years. He loved his days of fishing, hunting, feeding the birds and eagle watching. He will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by five children and spouses, Christopher Michael and Jessica Dillard of South Roxana, Timothy John and Sarah Dillard of Griffith, Indiana, Shawn David Dillard of Greenville, South Carolina, Tiffany Marie and Justin Smith of Jacksonville, Florida and Nathan Joseph and Katie Dillard of Granite City; eleven grandchildren, Lexi, Haley, Ethan, Audrey, MaKenzie, Ava, Jerzie, Kolten, Gavin, Gunnar and Lincoln; a brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Vickie Dillard of Belleville; a sister and brother-in-law, Susie and Butch Niesporek of Utah; two sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Irene Filter of Granite City and Lena and Dennis Garofoli of East Alton; many nieces; nephews; other extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary (Phillips) Dillard and a sister and brother-in-law, Patsy and Bud Parker.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Harvest Community Church, 4598 IL-162 in Granite City on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. where a funeral service will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Roy Boyer and Pastor Greg Dickerman officiating.
Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
Please dress casual in honor of Mike.
Memorials may be made to Harvest Community Church. Irwin Chapel of Granite City in charge of arrangements. www.irwinchapel.com
