Mike E. “Moe” DeSpain, 64, of Morrison, IL, died unexpectedly Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Mercy One Clinton Medical Center in Clinton, IA.
Michael Eugene DeSpain was born March 11, 1960, in Rock Island, IL, to Robert E. and Joyce A. (Letterman) DeSpain. He graduated from Erie High School in 1978. Mike married Connie L. Swanson on October 3, 1992, in Morrison. He loved to cook. He made his living cooking for the Dinner Bell restaurant and the Morrison American Legion for several years. For the past 17 years he worked at Hyponex in Morrison.
Mike was an avid Chicago Bears fan. He enjoyed fishing and reading and made time everyday to read his Bible. He also liked gardening, especially growing succulents and cacti. He loved eagles and found peace in watching them. His greatest joy was barbecuing. Many people know Mike for his 4th of July Ribfest where he would barbecue ribs for over 100 friends and family.
He is survived by his wife, Connie Swanson-DeSpain, Morrison; siblings, Marta (Doug) Rutledge, Erie, IL, Robin DeSpain, Patriot, IN, David DeSpain, Erie, Wendall DeSpain, Terre Haute, IN; father-in-law, Roland Swanson, Morrison; brother-in-law, Steve Swanson, Morrison; sister-in-law, Hope MacLennan, Clinton; many special nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Winella “Wendy” DeSpain; brother in infancy, Robert Eugene DeSpain, Jr.; his mother-in-law, Anne Swanson.
Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m., with a Celebration of Life Service at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Erie, IL.
Memorials may be made to the Iowa Raptor Project, Solon, IA.
Share a memory or condolence at www.gibsonbodefh.com.