Stanley "Stan" Mierek's Obituary
Stanley “Stan” Eugene Mierek, 84, of Decatur, IL, went to be with his lord and savior Jesus Christ on March 20, 2024, at Decatur Memorial Hospital.
He was born June 24, 1939, to Stanley and Ann, nee Wisneski, Mierek in Marissa, IL. He graduated from Mount Vernon Township High School in 1957 and moved to Decatur with his friend Bill Irwin, where he met Leilani “Lani” Ballard at Chaps Roller Rink. He used his impressive roller-skating skills to sweep her off her feet, likely while skating backwards. After receiving his draft notice for the Army in 1961, he volunteered for the U.S. Air Force, in which he served honorably for four years. While stationed in Biloxi, MS, he married Lani in the Keesler Air Force Base Chapel, May 5, 1962, and they then spent three years stationed in Pittsburgh, PA.
Stan used his drafting skills and talent for design in the sheet metal trade at Leader Iron Works, King-Lar, Longbons, and Grimsted’s, before joining Prairie Central Maintenance and Fabrication, first as partner, and then as President. He retired in 2005.
Stan was also an enthusiastic, devout, and outspoken disciple of Christ and active member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, where he helped start the Children’s Church program and regularly acted as a Sunday morning greeter, because he loved talking to people, especially about Jesus. Stan loved making music and often played his keyboard at local nursing homes and assisted living facilities, where toes would tap and eyes light up. His generosity and kindness were boundless, he was always ready to lend a hand, and he never met a stranger. His life embodied his faith, which he shared with all.
Stan is survived by his loving wife, Leilani; son, Jason Mierek; brother Ronald (Betty) Mierek; and granddaughter, Veronica Mierek, as well as numerous extended family and friends. His absence will be felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Dorothy Torrens and Geraldine Holloway.
A visitation will be held for Stan on Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 10–11am at Pilgrim Lutheran Church. A memorial service will also be held at the church at 11am with a burial to follow at Macon County Memorial Park.
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