Mike Hill

Mike Hill, 78, passed away on January 18th, 2026 in his home. Mike was born January 1st, 1948 to Howard and Ruth (Alsager) Hill from Newark Illinois.

He moved with his family from the farm to the town of Sandwich when he was in grade school. Mike graduated from Sandwich high School in 1966. He enjoyed his high school years participating in sports. He participated in four sports. He was on the first wrestling team that sandwich had. He also was in baseball and track. His first love would always be football. Remembering the scores as well as the opposing player's names all his life. He was proud of winning the 1964 Fox Valley Football Championship.

During his high school years there were many card games played earning him the name Ace. He enjoyed playing euchre, winning tournaments, with his close friend Mike. Mike was a member of the Local 150 Heavy Equipment Operators as well as Local 319 Plumber and Pipefitters. He was director of the Local 319 apprentice program for 5 years. He worked for several local plumbing contractors over the years. He worked for the state of Illinois as a plumbing inspector, working out of the West Chicago region, and finishing up with the Peoria regional office for a total of 27 years.

Mike enjoyed cooking for others. His special being barbecued ribs, winning honors at the Sandwich Fair. He shared his love of cooking with the local police as well as the football crew and coaches during some football games. It was his way of showing how much he appreciated them.

After retirement Mike enjoyed garage sales and especially auctions. Some of his time he would spend writing song lyrics as well as poetry. He also sang with a barbershop quartet early on in his life.

Mike married Elaine (Parish) in 1975. They have two sons, Tony and Paul. Mike was happy to share in the raising of Elaine's daughter, Angella Whitmer. He was very happy with Angie when she brought Mark Wilson into the family.

Mike was proceeded in death by his parents, Howard and Ruth; His sister, Hellen.

Mike is survived by his wife of 50 years, Elaine; His children; His grandchildren; A brother, Jim; Sisters-in-law, Jeannie Hill, Beth (Parish) Simmons, Ellen (Parish) Merlot, Barb Parish; Brother-in-law, Ted Parish; As well as many nephews, nieces, cousins and several life long friendships.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Beverage Family Funeral Home, 104 Terry St. Sandwich, IL 60548. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home next day, Thursday, January 29, 2026. A graveside service will follow out to Millington-Newark Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Beverage Family Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.beveragefamilyfh.com