Michele S."Mickey" Behrends

Michele S "Mickey" Behrends, 77, of Peoria, passed away at 9:23 AM on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare in Peoria, IL. She was born on October 31, 1946; a daughter of Mary (Keyes) Major. She married Jerry Behrends at the United Methodist Church of Bartonville, IL on August 1, 1970. He preceded her in death, along with her mother.

Surviving Michele are her two children, Lucy O’Neill of Peoria and Doug (Kandace) Behrends of Bartonville; two grandchildren, Katie O’Neill and Sarah (Caleb) Boyer; four great-grandchildren, Marquis and McKenna O’Neill, and Logan and Amiya Boyer; her brother, Larry (Margaret “Mugs”) Major; and her sister, Charlene (Dwain) Gallaway.

Mickey worked for the Bartonville Bank for many years. She was an avid cow collector and a big fan of the actor Raymond Burr, especially of his role as Perry Mason. Her favorite sports teams were the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Cubs.

Michele was most known for her infectious laughter and for being an amazing cook. She loved her kids and grandkids immensely; as well as her three dogs, Sophie, Gracie, and Rene.

Private graveside service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bartonville, IL. Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Pastor Nancy Bacon will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded with Endsley-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Bartonville, IL. Memorials may be made to Just Animals Shelter or to the American Cancer Society. To leave an online condolence you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com