Michael J. Degener

Michael J. Degener, 75, of Columbia, IL, died August 9, 2026, in St. Louis, MO. He was born December 11, 1950, in Red Bud, IL.

He is survived by his wife Diane Degener nee Smither; children Katie (Jeff) Giron and Andy (Jayme) Degener; grandchildren Wyatt and Ian Giron; sisters and brother Ellen (Richard) Tezak, Laura (Jeff) Kipping, and Tim (Susie) Degener; nieces; nephews; great nieces; great nephews; and cousins.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents Vernon H. and Madonna Degener nee Kunkel; brother Gregory Degener.

He was a member of St. Paul UCC - Columbia, IL; former ball player for Valmeyer Lakers (1981 MonClair League Batting Champion); loved golfing, fishing, family, and friends; 38 year member of the Waterloo Country Club;

As an expression of sympathy the family prefers memorial contributions to:
American Kidney Foundation
or Valmeyer Lakers

Visitation:
4 PM to 8 PM Thursday, August 13, 2026 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL
9 AM to 11 AM Friday, August 14, 2026 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL

Funeral Service:
11 AM Friday, August 14, 2026 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL
     Pastor Jonathan Bangera Officiating
Interment will follow at St. Paul Evangelical Cemetery, Columbia, IL