Michael Francis Meirick

A Great Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle, Grandfather, and Friend. Michael Francis Meirick, 81, of Ocala, Florida, passed away on November 4, 2025, with his family by his side. Born on February 9, 1944, in Elma, Iowa, Mike was the middle of three children to Francis and Jean Meirick. Mike grew up in Elma, IA and was known for his high energy, fun spirit, loyalty, and strong work ethic. After graduating from Loras College, he moved to Chicago and began a long career with Illinois Bell. He started as an engineer and retired 27 years later as an internal auditor. Retirement didn’t last long for Mike, who loved to work so much that he added a few more years at MCI, Western Utility, started a business as a home inspector, and finished his career at West Chicago Ace Hardware. Mike married Beverly on February 10, 1989, and they brought their families together as one, raising five children: Michael Meirick (Ali), Angela (Mike) Peterson, Keri (Milton) Lenon, Kelly Schieve (Matt), and Michael (Lauren) Schieve. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Eric Peterson, Lauren Peterson, Madison Schulz, John Schulz, Katelyn Schulz, Haley Deverick, and Mia, and a great-grandfather to Astrid Schulz. He is survived by his sisters, Louise (Donn) Harris and Maureen Bird, sister-in-law Pamela (Roger) Gola, and brother-in-law Paul (Sandy) Dolle. He was a beloved uncle to John Harris, Brian Harris, Amelia Bird, Carson Bird, Jaclyn Gola, Elizabeth (Ramiro) Fernandez, Michelle McBride, and Cynthia (Nathan) Richardson. Mike loved to learn, and he was a teacher, too. He never missed an opportunity to explain, share, or pass along something he knew. Mike could be called the ultimate competitor. He loved golf, was an avid reader and fisherman, played bridge since he was 14, and enjoyed crossword puzzles and Sudoku. He had a passion for cooking and grilling and was famous for his spirited dance moves. Mike was happiest sitting on his front porch, where he spent countless hours reading, listening to music from his vast collection, calling family and friends, and greeting anyone who passed by with a smile and a wave. There wasn’t a person Mike met who didn’t become a longtime friend. His infectious smile made everyone around him feel comfortable, and that familiar smirk and warm twinkle in his eye will be in our hearts forever. A memorial visitation will be held at DuPage Funeral Chapel, 951 W. Washington Street, West Chicago, IL, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with a chapel service to follow at 3:00 p.m.

Michael Francis Meirick

February 9, 1944 - November 4, 2025