Michael Leroy Gross

October 12, 1955 – April 25, 2026

Michael Leroy Gross, 70, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on October 12, 1955, to Delmar (Dee)  and Jean (Jackson) Gross. On August 23, 1975, he married the love of his life, L. Kathleen Wicks, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned over 50 years.

Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Kathy were blessed with four daughters: Michelle (Todd) Shutt of Taylorville, Kimberly (Chris Scallions) Aldridge of Tovey, Lisa Fleming of Kincaid, and Lyndsey McNally of Tovey.

He was a proud grandfather to Brooklyn (Aemilio) Santana, Lilly Fleming, Teddy Fleming, Sydney Shutt, Remi Fleming, and the late Zackry Aldridge. He was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Aleia Santana.

Mike found great joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, and took pride in tending his garden and keeping his yard perfectly trimmed. After a long day of hard work, he enjoyed relaxing with a cold beer in the garage, often sharing laughs with his dear friends Josh (Kelly) Prince, Nipper and Bull. 

One of his greatest joys in life was supporting his grandchildren. Whether it was basketball, football, or volleyball, you could always hear Mike cheering them on from the stands. He treasured time spent with his family, especially summer days filled with grilling burgers and hot dogs while surrounded by his girls and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and daughters, Mike is survived by his siblings Loren (Donna) Gross of Taylorville, Lonnie (Robin) Gross of Taylorville, Linda (Gary) Buerk of Owaneco, and Barbara Mitchell of Henderson, Nevada and his Life long friend Danny Joe Durbin of Taylorville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delmar and Jean Gross; his brothers, Gerald Gross and David Gross; his sisters, Sheila Avelar and Shannon Bradford; and his beloved grandson, Zackry Aldridge.

Michael will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his love for his family, and the joy he brought to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed.

Mike will be cremated and a celebration of life is planned for June 6, 2026, at the Moose Lodge in Taylorville, IL. 

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/michael-gross/obituary/

Copy