Michael "Mike" Passalacqua (58) of Effingham

Michael "Mike" Passalacqua, 58, of Effingham passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 6:00 pm Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham with visitation being held from 3:00 pm to time of service. Memorial donations may be given to St. Anthony Schools.

Mike was born on January 29, 1965, the son of Mickey (Siemer) and Larry Passalacqua. He was the second of four brothers, born into a musical family that brought him joy throughout his much-too-short 58 years.

From his father, he inherited a love of music and a wicked sense of humor; from his mother, a great love and respect for the importance of family. She was and remains the “North Star” of the family.

For many years, bands and music were his priority, and he loved entertaining people. He was a member of many great local bands that included Ivory Grand, Probably Bob, The Acousticats, Pop Rocks, and Leather Pistol. He was a talented yet humble musician that was willing to play whatever part was required of him.

As much as he loved music, the true love of his life was his family. On June 1, 2001, he married Kate (Leffler) Passalacqua, and soon Stella and Gracie followed. He loved his girls fiercely, and was their biggest cheerleader in life. He would do absolutely anything to make them laugh, and they always knew they were loved.

In recent years, as he struggled with his health, he never felt sorry for himself, and only focused on making sure his girls had his undivided attention. We are so thankful for all of the great times we had together, and will think of him with love when we hear the lyrics to his favorite songs, tend to all of his flowers, take care of his cats, and most importantly, watch his beloved girls walk through the next stages of their life.

Mike is survived by his wife, Kate, daughters, Stella and Gracie, mother Mickey Passalacqua, brothers and sisters in law Larry & Brit, Bill & JJ, Matt & Leah, parents-in-law Jay & Patsy Leffer, sisters-in-law Kelley Leffler and Colleen Swick, along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Quint and Marie Siemer and Joe and Katherine Passalacqua, uncle Don Passalacqua, and his beloved niece Chloe Passalacqua.