In Loving Memory of Michael John Ormerod

A Heartfelt Tinkerer, Curious Mind, & Quiet Advocate for Healing

Celebrating a Life of Ingenuity & Quiet Courage

Michael John Ormerod (August 10, 1959 – November 6, 2024) was a self-taught technologist, a masterful handyman, and a curious spirit who approached life with a laugh in his heart and a toolbox at the ready. Born in Chicago and raised in Des Plaines, Illinois, he was deeply loved as the oldest child of Phyllis J. (Pahnke) and John E. Ormerod.

Michael had a knack for understanding how things worked, so much so that as a child, he’d dismantle anything to satisfy his curiosity, leaving behind fascinating puzzles for his family to reassemble. That curiosity became a lifelong commitment: though he never attended college, he taught himself computer science and built a career as a computer programmer and data specialist. Yet equally, he earned renown as an extraordinary handyman, someone who could fix just about anything, with patience and ingenuity.

Living with Purpose & Compassion

Diagnosed later in life with significant health challenges, Michael met each day with resilience. In a bold statement of care, for himself, others, and the planet—he embraced a vegan lifestyle and chose to cycle everywhere, replacing his car with two wheels and intention. Whether pedaling around Des Plaines or cooking a nourishing meal, he found joy in simple acts, sharing warmth with friends, books, music, and animals he cherished.

Michael identified as an atheist and expressed a desire for no formal memorial service. Instead, he encouraged those who felt moved to honor him to consider supporting causes he cared about, particularly Animal Education and Rescue.

A Community Remembered and Held

Michael was known for his hearty laugh, his love of meaningful, and at times playful, debate, and his boundless curiosity about the world. He was “a force of nature, devoted friend, and a fount of knowledge on many interesting but unrelated topics,” as lovingly recalled by those closest to him.

Share Your Remembrances

This page is a space to honor Michael’s curious, compassionate spirit. You’re invited to share:

• A memory of a project he helped fix or a curious question he pondered with you.

• A small moment, maybe over a bicycle ride, a shared meal, or a debate—that still brings a smile.

• A way he inspired peace through quiet care, resilience, or his gentle presence.

Please share your memory below, each story keeps Michael’s spirit alive in our hearts and communities.

Continuing His Quiet Legacy of Peace

Michael’s life reminds us that transformation often happens softly—through empathy, curiosity, and everyday kindness. In honoring him, we choose remembrance through sharing, connection, and thoughtful action.