Michael Lee St. Ores, born September 14, 1955, on Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster, Missouri, passed away at his home on April 24, 2025, at the age of 69 after a long battle with heart failure and other health issues.

He was the son of George and Esther (Isenhart) St. Ores. As a child, Mike moved with his family to Freeport, Illinois, where he lived for the rest of his life. He grew up attending Faith Church, where he was active in the music program and Scouts. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1973. Mike married Theresa Hamer on May 15, 1976 at Zion Church in Freeport. Together they raised two sons, Jacob & Nicholas.

For many years, Mike worked at Micro Switch/Honeywell as a Journeyman Tool & Die Maker and engineering technician. Later, he ran his own tool shop.

He was the ultimate handyman:

-        He could fix anything – "Uncle Mike can fix it!"

-        He had a tool for everything – "We can borrow that from Mike!"

-        If he didn't have it, he'd make it – "I'll betcha Mike can make that part!"

Mike was always willing to drop what he was doing to help with your needs or projects. He was a loving and caring person and friend. He cared for both of his parents in their later years, helping them to remain in their own home until their deaths.

He loved his sons dearly and coached them in many sports and nature activities. He played city league and church league softball, and vowed to play until his sons and nephews were old enough to play with HIM. As it turns out, he continued to play with THEM for over 20 years.

He was a man of strong faith and took great pride in serving as one of the project leads for constructing the current Zion Church building, and his many years as a deacon and elder. He also served many years as the tech director for the local Christian radio broadcast WHRD 90.1/106.9.

He enjoyed motorcycle riding throughout his life, the Cubs and Bears and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, his beagles, being a member of the Aquin Boosters and his boys school activities, his time with friends building Kids Kastle in Krape Park, and his old Green Rambler with the push button dash.

He is survived by sons Jacob and Nicholas (Erica) St. Ores, all of Freeport, sister Michele St. Ores of Tennessee, friend and former wife Theresa (Hamer) St. Ores of Freeport, two aunts: Arla Green of Delavan, WI and Peggy (Jim) Eissens of Morrison, IL, numerous beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

"We appreciate never having to question whether we were loved or if you were proud of us. You made sure we always knew. We love you and will miss you dearly." – your boys, Jake & Nick

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, at 11:00 AM at Zion Church, located at 4292 W. Stephenson St. Road, Freeport, IL. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, prior to the service. A luncheon will follow the memorial service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name.