Michael Paul Poulos Jr.'s Obituary
Michael Paul Poulos Jr., 92, passed away April 30, 2023, peacefully at his home with family by his side.
Michael was born on April 11, 1931, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Michael Poulos Sr. and Eulah M. (Woodin). He married Ruth Soules on December 16, 1950.
He had a long, beautiful, adventurous life that was filled with love and laughter. He grew up in Arcola, IL at his dad’s side in the Arcola Candy Kitchen. He was a graduate of Arcola High School, where he ran track and played football. He continued his football career at Millikin University until enlisting in the United States Navey from 1951-1955. In 1955, he headed back to Arcola, IL to his family farm and worked at USI in Tuscola. Moving his family to Decatur in 1967, he worked at Firestone until retiring. They built their forever home, and after retiring, he worked with his wife and son Robert in their business, Classic Paper Source.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, hard worker, farmer, and fun-loving. He loved his family, watching their ball games, giving tractor and golf cart rides, and sharing his love for sweets. He loved traveling to see family or just for fun with friends. He had a way of making people laugh and smile. Even in his last few days, his eyes would light up as he told stories from throughout his life.
He is survived and missed dearly by his family: children Sandra (McWhirter), David, and Robert (Sheree); grandchildren Jonathan (Miranda), Heath, Melinda McWhirter Campbell (Jess), Travis (Kayla), Dustin (Heather), and Jeremy (Michele); 11 great-grandchildren; and very special friend, Theresa.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ruth (Soules), stepmother Kathryn Jacoby, sister Alpha (Cleary), son-in-law John McWhirter, and beautiful great-grandson Taylor Poulos.
Memorial Visitation for Michael will be held from 1pm to 2pm on Monday, May 8, 2023, at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home. A Memorial Service, including military rites, will begin at 2pm. Memorials may be directed to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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