Michael L. Fritchley

Michael passed from the loving presence of his wife, Julie, here on earth into the arms of his beloved Lord and Savior, Jesus. In their 33 years of marriage, they were blessed with 3 children and 7 grandchildren: Torrence (Courtney) and their children, Daphne and Ben; Brandon (Kylie) and their children, Finn and Margo; and Adalia (Austin) and their children Jesse, Nyra, and Orianna.

As the second son of Larry and Karen (Edwards) Fritchley, he was a tender-hearted soul who wanted to be loved well, but as the family moved often in his young years it was difficult to form deep relationships and trust others. He took joy in pleasing others and making them laugh. He was proud to serve in the Army for this nation that he called home.

Mike probably would tell you that the story of his life wasn’t worth telling - except for that it is really God’s story; one of rebirth and redemption. Enmeshed under the weight of decades of poor choices and consequences, real life began from the moment Jesus came into Mike in a vision more than 23 years ago, where all the love, acceptance and forgiveness he longed for was freely given. A dead man was raised back to life; not just for this life in the flesh but for eternity in the spirit.

He was a private poet with a sensitive heart. He loved through serving others, encouraging others in addiction recovery; people broken and with wounds as deep and dark as his own. He was compassionate in benevolent ministry, taking the time to listen to people’s pain and struggles; coming alongside to assist in carrying their burdens and helping with practical needs as his skills allowed. He found his passion in desiring others to find the peace, love and acceptance available in Jesus because he wanted all to have the amazing gift of salvation he had been given.

When Mike was asked how he felt about the possibility of having lymphoma last year he said, “ I win.” He knew his eternal destination. He knew it was better than this life on earth. He knew there he could be his perfect self, unencumbered by his own sin, no longer shackled by the sin of others, free of wounds and hurts from a lifetime. He had full assurance from the Creator of the universe, bought by the blood of Jesus, guaranteed with the seal of the Holy Spirit where and with whom he will spend eternity.

As evidence, Julie and a few others got a peek at the freed man a month before he went to his heavenly home and it was glorious! If anyone else wants to see the fully realized potential look up John 3:16, Acts 16:30-31 or Romans 10:9-11.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, July 20, from 5pm until 8pm at The Evangelical Free Church of Crystal Lake, 575 E Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake.  The visitation will continue on Friday, July 21, from 10am until the time of a memorial service at 11am at the church.  A luncheon will follow.

Memorials in Michael's name can be made to Informed Choices .

To watch the service via livestream at 11am click here .