Michael A. Stephens

Michael A Stephens, 50, of Bismarck, IL passed away at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, IL on December 19, 2024. 

Michael was born on April 14, 1974 the son of Michael and Judy (George) Stephens in Danville, IL. He married Melinda Jo Hack on December 5, 1998 in Oakwood, IL and she survives.

He is survived by his wife, best friend and soulmate Mendy Stephens, three amazing children, Laney Stephens of St Louis, MO, Josh (Laynee Dickison) Stephens of Hoopeston, IL and Andrew (Abby Decker) of Bismarck, IL, his parents, Michael and Judy Stephens of Lake Placid, FL, two brothers, Douglas (Andrea) Stephens of Toledo, OH and Matthew Stephens of Holland, OH, his mother and father-in-law, Dave and Jan Hack, sister-in-law, Andi Rowe and, brother-in-law, Joe (April) Hack, all of Oakwood, one niece, Adeline Stephens of Holland, OH, three nephews, Brandon Rowe of Oakwood, IL, Micheal Hack and Wyatt Hack both of Oakwood, IL. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins, friends that were more like family, fellow law enforcement officers and so many more that thought the world of him. 

Mike is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Mike served in the US Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller for 4 years and worked at the Vermilion County Detention Center before being hired by the Danville Police Department where he trained numerous officers as a FTO. He retired from the Danville Police Department in May of 2024 and found the perfect position to continue his desire to help others as an Adult Protective Services Investigator for the Illinois Department of Aging. 

Mike's life was centered around his deep love for his family. He and Mendy built a life filled with laughter and adventure, with their children at the heart of everything they did. Mike’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family, whether it was cruising in their jeep or spending a day on the boat. He especially cherished the many memories they created together with their family, friends and their dogs, Copper and Bandit.

Together, Mike and Mendy embarked on numerous family adventures, traveling across the United States. They enjoyed RV trips to stunning national parks in the Western United States, beach vacations by the ocean, and cabin stays in the Great Smoky Mountains, where laughter and love filled their days. These experiences brought them closer as a family and became the foundation of many beautiful memories that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mike’s passion for sports was a central part of his life. A devoted fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, he spent many spring breaks in Florida, cheering on his favorite team alongside his children, Mendy, and his parents. His enthusiasm for the game was contagious, and his love for the Blue Jays was matched only by his loyalty to the University of Illinois teams. Whether it was Illinois basketball or football, Mike enjoyed them all. He especially loved the time spent tailgating with friends and family before each football game, celebrating not only the sport but also the joy of being together. 

Mike’s ability to connect with others, whether through coaching, sports, or simply being there for those in need, left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Mike dedicated 20 years to coaching at BHRA and BHJH, building countless lasting connections that will live on through his players. Always willing to lend a hand to family and friends, Mike was the person you could count on whenever you needed him. His ornery grin and playful teasing made him all the more lovable, leaving a warm and lasting impression on everyone he met. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834. Brian Carpenter will officiate. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 5-8:00 PM on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to a scholarship fund being set up in Mike’s honor or to the American Legion Post 210 to honor Mike’s memory and his dedication to our community, country and his love for sports. 

Please join Michael’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .