Dr. William Francis Michels, Bill was born on October 16, 1958 and passed into God’s eternal kingdom on September 28, 2011. Beloved husband of Nancy Lorraine Michels, nee Tangen, devoted father of William Tenner Michels, Mary Frances (Russ) Glinke, Elizabeth Anne (Doug) Ehlert, and Rebecca Susan Michels; cherished grandfather of Rory James Glinke; loving son of Dolly Davis Michels and the late William Joseph Michels; dear brother of Matthew Graham (Jinger) Michels and Alan Steven Michels; dear son-in-law of Tenner Marcus and Dorothy Irene Tangen; fond brother-in-law of Susan (Harry) Maravelas and Liz (Jim) Page; uncle of Sarah, Ruth & Marie Page and David, John & Steven Maravelas.
Bill received his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas and received his Ph.D., also in Chemical Engineering, from the University of Minnesota. Bill’s primary career focus was in Research & Development. He particularly liked the intellectual stimulation of collaborative research with universities to develop novel technology. Bill was well respected by those he worked with throughout the country.
He also had many diverse interests outside of his professional life. He enjoyed collecting stamps and coins, gardening, watching college football and marching bands, meteorology, geology and other scientific disciplines. In fact, Bill was often heard saying “Name a topic, I bet you I have a book in the basement about it.” Bill had a great love of music, both vocal and instrumental performance. His children also adopted his love of music. The primary focus of his music was to serve the church. Bill’s commitment to his family and his church were the most important things in his life. Bill’s strong faith in Jesus was the foundation that he built his life upon. Bill touched many hearts and lives through his compassion, love and service.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 30, 2011 from 3-8 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1101 Kimberly Way, Lisle, IL (on Rt. 53, between Maple Ave. and Hobson Rd.) Visitation will continue at the church Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 9:30 am until time of Funeral Service at 11:00 am. Following the funeral service, burial will be at Naperville Cemetery. For information, you may call the funeral home at 800-670-8299.
