In his own words, Mike Delimata lived a fulfilling and fun life. He ate every donut and all the candy he desired. He was a standout baseball player into his adult years. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals, golf and any team his Grandsons played for, seldom missing a game. He was passionate about sports, horse racing and gambling, though he always shared his profit. He was a passionate coach of youth sports.
Mike loved all animals, especially the pets he adopted over the years. He never met a critter he wasn't willing to feed, rescue or help.
Mike also devoted much of his life to supporting people with disabilities, a role he took seriously and proudly. He especially loved traveling to the Special Olympics as a coach to his clients.
He enjoyed simple pleasures such as a lotto ticket, an errand for a loved one or just a quick drive in his decrepit but much-loved truck where he totally wasn't smoking cigars, Linda. The fine staff at Kroger and Shell will no doubt send a search party in his noticeable absence.
He loved his family above all else. He will be remembered for his fierce allegiance to those close to him, his thoughtfulness and his stubbornness.
Michael Delimata was born on February 6, 1948 in Chicago Heights and passed away March 3, 2026 in Rockford. Michael was married to Linda Delimata for 56 years and they had two children, Jessica (Brian Nawrocki) and Christofer ( Stacy) Delimata. He has two grandsons, Miles and Charlie Nawrocki. Michael has one cousin, Paul Mattews from Homewood with whom me shared a home as a child, and a second cousin, Paul Mattews Junior who lives in Poland. He was considered a member of Linda's family for 60 years, and loved them all.
A celebration of life will be held on March 15th at Champs Banquet Venue located at 9 E 3rd Street in Sterling from 1 pm until 4 pm. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com .