Michael R. Eby

Michael R. Eby, 64, Woodstock, died Wednesday, May 8, at home.

He was born July 21, 1949, in Elgin to Robert and Kit (Thompson) Eby.

He grew up in Woodstock and was a graduate of Woodstock High School.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1971 and received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service in Vietnam. He also served in the honor guard.

He was employed with Eagle Foods for 33 years and was a longtime manager at the Woodstock location. He also worked for Woodstock High School for 12 years.

He loved his family and his family loved him. He enjoyed fishing, good times, good friends; having fires in the backyard with his wife and dogs; and seeing his grandchildren. He also was a Chicago Cubs and NASCAR fan.

His family wishes to thank Heartland Hospice for its care, support and compassion.

Survivors include his wife, Shelly (Bednarek) Eby; his mother, Cape Giradeau, Mo.; a sister, Sande Durham, Dexter, Mo.; a son, Matthew (Jackie) Eby, Crystal Lake; a daughter, Kelly Azarela, Woodstock; a stepson, Joshua Bednarek, Woodstock; a stepdaughter, Jackie (Dave) Syens, Wonder Lake; five grandchildren, Nathan Syens, Alyssa Syens, Nicholas Azarela, Alex Azarela and Jason Eby; many sisters- and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; a brother-in-law, Junior Durham; and a niece, Sharon Jean Hansmann.

Visitation and the funeral were May 11 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Burial was at McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock, with military honors provided by VFW Post 5040 honor squad.

Memorials can be sent to Gavers Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 1724, Woodstock, IL 60098, or the American Cancer Society Foundation, P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.