Michael B. Willenborg DDS (80) of Effingham

Michael B. Willenborg DDS, 80, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at Willowbrook Memory Support Residences in Effingham.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 30, 2024 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Effingham with burial in St. Anthony Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 29, 2024 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to St. Anthony Schools.

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Michael was born on September 18, 1944, in Effingham, IL, the son of Robert E. “Bob” and Joyce M. (Barnes) Willenborg. He married Mary Sehy on December 27, 1969 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, and she survives.

Flag raiser, telephone answerer, and Coach Bud Friese’s floor general, Michael graduated from Sacred Heart Grade School in 1958. Quarterback under the legendary Jack Klosterman, “Ole Slick” graduated from Effingham High School in 1962. After graduating from the University of Illinois’ College of Dentistry in 1969, Dr. Mike drilled and filled many, many teeth until his reign of terror ended at his retirement in 2006. He dearly loved his wife, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed playing cards, cursing while golfing, and making inappropriate jokes.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary Willenborg of Effingham; sons, Stephen (Melissa) Willenborg DMD of Effingham, Christian (Jennifer) Willenborg of St. Louis, MO, and Ethan (Samantha) Willenborg of Edwardsville, IL; grandchildren, Catherine Willenborg, Jonathan Willenborg, Hannah Willenborg, Addison Willenborg, Allison Willenborg, Henry Willenborg, and Eleanor Willenborg; and sisters, Joy Jones of Effingham and Pam (Alan) Wood of Bloomington.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Judith F. Willenborg; and brothers-in-law, Steve Jones and Tony Tegenkamp.