Skip Michael Mullen, 63, passed away at 7:48 a.m. on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at his home after a very brief illness.
He was born on July 11, 1960, in Granite City, Illinois, to John and Nancy (Batson) Mullen. At birth he weighed only 3lbs, and his mother called him her miracle child.
He married the love of his life, Paulette (Rials) Mullen, on June 22, 2002, in Bloomington, Illinois. The two shared an amazing and unbreakable bond of friendship, love and family.
Skip was employed for many years at Walmart and Illinois Wesleyan University and is known for his awesome work ethic. He was a beloved man and die-hard St. Louis Cardinals fan. Skip had a smile that made everyone smile and a unique laugh that made everyone laugh with him. He valued hard work and treasured spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren. One of Skip’s favorite places was the family cabin, where he spent time laughing with his mom and the rest of the family. He especially enjoyed taking his grandkids there to fish, swim and collect tadpoles.
He loved his family beyond measure, and was always there for them offering love, encouragement and support in any way possible. Skip was a blessing to his family and will be missed dearly, but they will keep the memories they shared with him alive and hold his love dearly to their hearts. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, stepfather, grandfather and friend.
Skip was preceded in death by his father, John Mullen; sister, Elizabeth Mullen; sister-in-law, Charlotta Rials; brothers-in-law, Shawn Rials and Anthony Rials; and his grandson, Martrell “Dudy” Rials.
He is survived by his loyal and loving wife, Paulette Mullen of Bloomington, Illinois; beloved mother, Nancy Mullen of Granite City, Illinois; brother, Scott Mullen of Granite City, Illinois; sisters-in-laws, Sally Mullen of Granite City, Illinois, Sharon Brown of Bloomington, Illinois and Crystal Rials of Chicago, Illinois; brother-in-law, Andre Rials of Chicago, Illinois; niece, Melissa Mullen of Granite City, Illinois; nephews, Corey Mullen of Granite City, Illinois and Gavin Mullen of Granite City, Illinois; stepdaughter, Latasha Rials of Chicago, Illinois; stepson, Felix Rials of Chicago, Illinois; grandchildren, Myla Dortch, Amore Dortch, Genesis Rials, L’Oréal Davis and Cekai Rials; and other extended family and countless cherished friends.
In celebration of his life, a memorial visitation will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Irwin chapel, 3960 Maryville Road, Granite City, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to the Granite City APA and may be accepted at the funeral home. www.irwinchapel.com
