Michael A. Assalley
November 12, 1985 ~ January 11, 2024
Born in:
Bloomington, IL
Resided in:
Taylorville, IL
Michael “Mike” Assalley, age 38, of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois after a brief, but mighty battle with acute leukemia of which he was recently diagnosed.
Mike was born on November 12, 1985, in Bloomington, Illinois, the son of William “Bill” Assalley and Carolyn (Koehler) Assalley. As a youngster, Mike attended school in Mahomet, IL before his family moved to Effingham, IL at the start of his high school career. It was in high school that Mike met his future wife, Lauren. A product of a beautiful, close-knit family, Mike also spent much time in the LaSalle, IL and Peru, IL areas, visiting frequently with his beloved grandparents and extended family.
On August 4, 2012, he married the love of his life, Lauren (Sanders) Assalley in Effingham, Illinois. Mike and Lauren shared 20 wonderful years of life together as a couple–11 of which were in Marriage. They were blessed with three beautiful children, and Mike’s young family was his pride and joy.
Mike graduated from Effingham High School in 2004. While in high school, he was voted “Homecoming King,” was co-captain of the football team, and was also voted as “most talkative” by his peers. He had a brilliant mind and was knowledgeable on many topics–earning notable awards such as Daughters of The American Revolution (DAR), All-American Scholar, and induction to the French National Honor Society. He spent his post high school years working as a pharmacy technician for Walgreens before hearing his calling to service and returning to school. Mike graduated from mortuary school at Carl Sandburg College (Galesburg, IL) in 2014, with honors.
He started his early career working for Butler Funeral Homes in Springfield, IL, as a school intern, licensed funeral director apprentice, and then as a licensed funeral director. In May 2017, Mike ventured into entrepreneurship and acquired four funeral homes from Perfetti Funeral Homes, Inc. (Taylorville, Morrisonville, Sorento, and Panama, IL locations), and in July 2021, he acquired Young Funeral Home in Greenville, IL (his fifth funeral home). Mike garnered much success with his career and businesses in his young life. His legacy for service will continue. He was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Church in Taylorville, a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2120. He was currently serving as President of the Executive Board of Directors for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, committee member for Sangchris & Taylorville Chapters of Ducks Unlimited, and he served on numerous other community agency boards including the Board of Directors for DowntownTaylorville.org and serving as a Past President of the Christian County United Way. He provided and awarded many scholarships to local high school students. Mike immersed himself in his community and had a true servant’s heart.
One of the most interesting and multi-faceted persons one could meet, Mike had a multitude of interests and skill sets including: music (playing multiple instruments, writing and recording songs), hunting–especially ducks and waterfowl–and outdoorsmanship, traveling, history, politics, sports (Chicago Cubs & Bears and Notre Dame Football were favorites), collections (often sourcing family heirlooms such as his ancestral Koehler duck decoys), and making memories with his family and friends. He hardly knew a stranger and touched many lives in his short time on earth with generosity, compassion, and authenticity. His quick wit and gifted mind brought much laughter and joy to all who loved him. Mike was a man of strong faith in God.
Mike was a loving husband, a devoted father to his three children, caring son, protective brother, and loyal friend. He is survived by his wife, who he often called “Love of my Life” and “My Queen,” Lauren E. Assalley of Taylorville; his children, Ila Belle Assalley (age 8), Vincent Francis Kent Assalley (age 5), and John William Assalley (age 1), all at home; his parents, Bill and Carolyn Assalley of Taylorville; his mother-in-law, Debbie Sanders of Watson, IL; his father-in-law, Derek Sanders of Newton, IL; his sisters, Lauren (husband, Wesley) Layton of Ypsilanti, MI, Sydney Assalley (significant other, Dillon Williams) of Ypsilanti, MI; his sister-in-law, Nikki (husband, Richard) Vahling of Teutopolis, IL; his brother-in-law, Logan Sanders (significant other, Catherine Zumwalt and her sons, Noah and Nicholas); his niece and goddaughter, Aubrey Vahling; his grandmothers, Jacquelyn Assalley of Peru, IL & Linda Koehler of Peru, IL; and many doting
aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Frank E. Assalley and maternal grandfather, Kent L. Koehler; paternal uncle, Robert H. Assalley; and a best friend, Zachary Fish of Effingham, IL, who also had an untimely passing.
Visitation & Funeral Mass: The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 19, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 108 West Adams Street, Taylorville, Illinois 62568. The Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2024, also at St. Mary’s Church in Taylorville, with Rev. Piotr Kosk officiating.
Interment will follow the Funeral Mass with his final resting place to be at St. Maurice Cemetery in Morrisonville, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to an educational fund for Mike & Lauren’s children, c/o Lauren Assalley.
Arrangements have been entrusted to his own Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville, Illinois.
Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Michael, or to offer condolences to his family.
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Services
Visitation: January 19, 2024 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
St. Mary's Catholic Church
108 W. Adams St.
Taylorville, IL 62568
Funeral Mass: January 20, 2024 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
St. Mary's Catholic Church
108 W. Adams St.
Taylorville, IL 62568
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Michael A. Assalley 's name.
Mike & Lauren's Children's Educational Fund
c/o Lauren Assalley, Assalley Funeral Homes, 202 W. Franklin St.
Taylorville,
IL
62568
Words cannot begin to express what an INCREDIBLE human being we had the pleasure of knowing…THANK YOU for everything you have done for so many people always with compassion and kindness. Sending Thoughts and Prayers to the FAMILY.
Such a nice guy and will be greatly missed in the community. My condolences to his family.
Such an incredible loss. The world is a better place because of you, Mike. Lauren & family- I am so sorry for your loss.
Mike did a great kindness for our family recently and when we asked how we should repay him, he insisted “pay it forward”. This is how he will be remembered in our home.
Lauren and Family, We are in total shock as we are sure you are too. Our Heartfelt Condolences go out to you and your Precious Children. Bob and I had talked to Michael right before Christmas …. he told us how much you were loving the new house. I’m so sorry that he will not be here to spend the many years he should have been to watch the kids grow and thrive. As you know in Michael’s business life is not always promised. We will keep you in our Prayers that you find Comfort and Peace for this unexpected tragedy.
I’m totally in awe he was great man did so much for so many people
Lauren and Family, We are in total shock as we are sure you are too. Our Heartfelt Condolences go out to you and your Precious Children. Bob and I had talked to Michael right before Christmas …. he told us how much you were loving the new house. I’m so sorry that he will not be here to spend the many years he should have been to watch the kids grow and thrive. As you know in Michael’s business life is not always promised. We will keep you in our Prayers that you find Comfort and Peace for this unexpected tragedy.
Lauren and Family, Our Heartfelt Condolences on the unexpected passing of Michael. We will keep you and your 3 Precious Children in our Prayers to find Comfort and Peace during this extremely difficult time.
Mike was a very caring man. He helped my family and my husband’s family thru some trying times. He was a great human and he will be missed. Condolences to Lauren and the kids. Prayers of comfort for the family.
My heart is broken for his family, and all who knew him. Mike was a treasure. He meant so much to my entire family and I. My son had his favorite basketball stolen from him at the park a couple of years ago, Mike heard about it, and absolutely insisted on buying him a replacement because he once had his catchers mitt stolen from him when he was a kid. I will never forget the generosity, kindness, and respect that Mike ALWAYS showed us. He was a true friend and will always be known as one of the good ones. I was honored, and so very blessed to know him. My whole family will remember him, and miss him always.
Mike was such a great help when my Mom (Barb Millburg) passed… he showed Jesus to us at our lowest time and inspired us, pulled us thru and saw the humanity in us all… Mike will not be forgotten…
Lauren and the kids… prayers for peace, strength and wisdom…. ❤️
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike’s family. Mike was such a wonderful, kind, caring and thoughtful guy. He could always brighten you day with his kind words and his laugh. He will be definitely missed by anyone that knew him. God bless his wife and 3 little ones. Mike may you rest in peace.
Really sad to hear about Michael. He was a caring young man who had the unique ability to help others through difficult times. When our mother passed, I will never forget when Michael came to pick her up. He walked in the room, gently placed his hand on hers and said, hey there Jessie, it’s Michael. Prayers of comfort to the family. Our loss and heavens gain.
Mike was a very awesome guy. He did my fiancee funeral. And my nephew. He knew what he was doing when it came to doing funerals. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Prayers for the family at this time.
My condolences goes out to Lauren & the children. He was such a great guy, as well as a former neighbor. The last time I spoke with him was at one of his kick off campaign & we talking about how the kids grown, especially Vinnie. He loved & was proud of them. I can’t imagine them growing up without him. We talked about their new house & how they loved it. Prayers to you, Lauren, & may God keep you & the children in arms during these difficult times.
Prayers for his family. He was so helpful during our family’s loss as I know he has been for so many others. His community will feel his loss.
Dearest Lauren, Ila, Vinnie and John~
Words cannot express how deeply, deeply sorry for your loss of Mike. He has imprinted a beautiful love on your hearts that will remain forever more. May Mike rest in peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him. Praying for strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead for you, your beautiful family, and all who loved him.
Much love and tight, tight hugs.
My heart is shattered.. Mike was such a loving, compassionate, and funny man.. He was truly a godsend when mom passed away .. A great friend you could always count on.. Prayers to Lauren and the kids
What a tragic loss. The world simply won’t be the same. So very sorry for Lauren and those three precious babies. Mike always had a smile and a kind word even in the darkest of days. Prayers with the family.
I was very shocked to hear of Mike’s passing. The Sorento community has lost a very good friend. Mike was a kind and caring person. He seemed to make everyday a good day by doing his best with his life. He will be missed by many but remembered by them all.
I don’t know the words to even say…the shock is just too much. You were such an amazing person. You made losing both of my parents a little easier with your comfort and help. You were my favorite person to gossip with about things most people can’t stomach…haha! This world and the funeral industry has lost someone very special 💔 Prayers to you family!
My heart is extremely saddened for the sudden loss of Mike. He was such a kind man who helped me through the loss of my husband. My prayers & thoughts are with his family. I am so, so sorry. He will be missed.
Broke my heart to hear this. Mike took such good care of the family during our hard times, especially with my mom a few months ago. He always had a smile on his face and one of the most caring heart. Thinking of you all.
So sorry for your loss. Mike was a good friend & handled my husband’s funeral. He will be missed
So sorry for your loss.
You were so much fun to work with at Butler but always a consummate professional. My prayers for healing to Lauren and kids.
Dear Lauren,
There just are no words, other than I’m so incredibly sorry. My heart breaks for you, your precious children, and for all who knew and loved Mike. Prayers for comfort and strength at this unbearable, difficult time. Sending you a huge cyber hug… ❤️
What a great man. We are so sorry for your loss. Mike will be missed. 😢🙏🏻
I am so shocked and saddened by the news of Mike’s death. He was fun to work with at Butler Funeral Homes and was a great funeral director whose personality meshed with all the families he served. Many are grateful as he helped them through their grief. Sympathy to Lauren and kids as you work through your own loss and grief. He was a great guy!
Words cannot express my sorrow & shock at the news of Mike’s passing. he was so compassionate & caring thru my family’s loss of my wife, Barb. My sincere condolences on you & your family’s loss.
His energy and ambition always set him apart. So, so, sad for all of you. Gone much too soon and he will be missed by many.
I worked alongside Mike a handful of times while I was an apprentice at Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home in Decatur. Mike was a great teacher & I am thankful for the knowledge and mentorship during that time.
I also have had many emails/text messages with Bill when I first started my journey into funeral service (we were in mortuary school around the same time) & I was job hunting! Mike has served central Illinois & many communities in such a great way.
I am praying and thinking of your family during this difficult time.
I never met Mike..I only spoke to him over the phone..& it was re: the tree on his property fell on my new car while in my driveway during a storm. At times I wasn’t very kind..my Italian temper I guess..but Mike..never once ..was he not the kind & generous man to me.He took complete responsibility & was a man of his word. I am so sorry for all of you…to have lost such a man. His kindness made a difference to me.
Our Deepest Sympathies to the family.
Today on my birthday a phone call came giving us the devastating news of Mike’s passing. All I could think about is how he loved Lauren and those babies. Plus he worked so hard and he was such a people person. He left a ray of sunshine in everyone’s loss just by being such a kind hearted young man. He was like family to Terry and I. Terry would text him ever so often and tell him she just prayed for him. He always told her thank you and to keep them coming. And I know she will only now they will be for his family. He was my buddy. We will so so miss him. May you now Rest in peace dear friend.
Our hearts are broken for you, Lauren and the kids. Mike was by far one of the biggest hearted and kindest men I have had the pleasure of knowing! Even in highschool days I remember Mike and how absolutely funny and charismatic he was, you two made the most wonderful pair. I know no words will comfort you in this time but we are here and will drop anything if you need us. We love you and your family so much! Hugs!
There are no words to comfort you in this moment.
Rick and I are so deeply sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies to your family and friends.
Mickey and Rick
Mike was a great individual who was taken from us too soon. Always loved his attitude, so professional and compassionate. I was honored to had him as
friend.
RIP – Mike.
Lauren,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Wrapping you, the kids and all who loved your wonderful husband in love and prayers for comfort and peace for your broken hearts.
Lauren & Family- I met Mike through work at Butler, we shared a love of ND Football and I’ll always remember our conversations about football. Thoughts and prayers to you all
I am so sorry for your loss. I met Mike only once at a political meeting. He impressed me as such a nice person. You will be in my prayers
With sympathy for your family in this sad, far too early passing,
Judy Robinson
Praying so much for your family. Sending love and hugs your way as well
Lauren,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved husband. I did not know Mike but heard many great things about him. I will keep your family in my prayers. Sending you and your precious babies love and hugs.
Sending our prayers and sympathy to his family. I served with him on the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation…enjoyed our time on the board together. Alta & Lynn Himstedt
Dear Lord,
In the midst of our grief, we yearn for Your peace to calm our troubled hearts. Wrap us in Your comforting embrace, and let Your tranquility fill our souls. May the storms of sorrow subside as we find solace in Your love, understanding that in Your peace, we can find respite from the overwhelming waves of sadness. We thank You for the peace that only You can provide, granting us a sanctuary of calm amidst the tumultuous seas of sorrow. Amen.
Thinking and Praying for the entire Assalley family during this time.
I am heartbroken to hear of Mike’s passing -he was the most compassionate person I have ever met and made life easier to bear when he navigated us thru losing my mother -if only the world had more people like Mike. My sincerest condolences to his family -thinking of all of you
I am so very sorry for your loss I didn’t know Mike well but he always returned a “hey mike” in the halls at school. I have known Lauren for many years and you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Sending you all love and hugs.
Words feel very small, but please know that I am so very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I had the unique pleasure of knowing “Michael” as a small child and “Mike” as a young man when he was a pharmacy technician at Walgreens. Simply, Mike was always a really nice guy and all around good human. The world was absolutely better off with him in it. Thinking of the entire Assalley clan and hoping that your memories of this wonderful man bring you comfort.
Lauren and family, my sympathies to you on this heartbreaking loss. Mike was an incredible human and I am so grateful to have worked with him and remained friends with him over the years. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Our thoughts and prayers to the family during this difficult time. Mike was an incredible, kind, caring and devoted man and used it during the passing of our father in 2021. He left a very good impression on the family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family!
In your time of sorrow, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Assalley family. Mike was brilliant and thoughtful in so many ways! We are praying for the Assalley family during this difficult time!
Lauren and family,
My heartfelt sympathies go out to you and your children for your heartbreaking loss. I enjoyed having Mike as a client. It was obvious he was very proud of his family. He’d often talk about you or something funny one of the kids had done or said. He accomplished so much at such a young age. A great funeral director, community leader and friend to many. He will be greatly missed. Keeping you all in my prayers. God Bless.
Teresa Nelson
Miller Media Group
I was saddened to hear about Mike’s passing. I met him when he worked at Butler’s and would run into him in Springfield occasionally. He was always friendly and professional, and we shared a strong commitment to our families, faith, communities and the funeral service. Please accept my condolences and prayers for his family and those whose lives he touched. May Mike’s legacy live on through his family and his service to others.
Jerry Curry
Curry Funeral Home
So sorry to hear this. I did not know Mike, but it has shown what an incredible man he was. May his memories comfort and protect you. My prayers to you and yours.
As a fellow Kiwanian and friend, I want to express my condolences to Bill and the Assalley family as they grieve the loss of Mike. We will miss his faithful attendance at our meetings and his willingness to participate in our service projects.
Very sorry for his family that this happened. Mike was a great person who was very professional with my sisters funeral Getting to know Mike as a person and a friend and to see what he has done for this community and his role as a husband and a father speaks high volumes You will be missed Mike
Knowing Mike only briefly since last year, it was easily apparent how much compassion he had for the communities he served and how much joy his family and “work family” provided him. Please know my prayers are with you all.
I am shocked by the loss of Michael. I only knew him for a short time, but he was such a personable and congenial individual. I had really looked forward to a relationship with Michael, but I understand God always has the last say in life and many times life is not a matter of time, but of what one has accomplished and that speaks for itself here.
I do mourn your loss.
Sincerely, God bless,
Jack E. Tosetti
Dear Lauren and children
We have never met, but we share your sorrow over loosing Mike.
Mike was a wonderful person. He helped me with arrangements for my Uncle.
My Uncle was buried at Camp Butler and he set up everything, including Honor guard,
for his service. Everything was perfect. Mike was active with helping the veteran organizations. He helped with fund raising for getting uniforms for our local Military
Honor Guard. He will be missed by many many friends here in town.
Our prayers are with you. May God bless you and give you strength.
Sending many thoughts and prayers to you and your family!
Lauren, you and our daughter Kelly are best friends. When you where in Kelly’s wedding is where we met Mike. One of the things I have always liked about Mike is his smile. I always felt it was genuine and loving as was his personality. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. You and your children are so very lucky to have your families to help you in this hard time. I am thinking of you and your children because when I was eight years old I lost my father, but it was my mother and my family and their endless love for each other that got me through. May God bless.
Mike was such a good, thoughtful and caring man. He helped lay to rest my mother in 2017! Our family will always remember his kindness to all of us and the great care of mom before, during and after the visitation, funeral and cemetery services. Prayers of comfort to his wife and family. Forever grateful for Mike as we said goodbye to our mom- Katherine McDonald
Mary McDonald