Michael David Landt

UPDATED SERVICE LOCATION INFORMATION:

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 24, from 1pm until 5pm at Grand Oaks Recreation Center 1401 W. Rte 176, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. A service with Military Honors will be at 2pm.

To know Mike was to feel welcomed, heard, and encouraged. His life was built on the foundation of family and strengthened by friends, coworkers, and community. Mike was blessed with the ability to connect and always make everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 26, 1966 to David P. and Karen Landt. Even from a young age, Mike was often the protector of his younger brothers, Steve and Dave, going to bat against the bullies. He worked tirelessly to become an honored Eagle Scout. He attended Gordon Tech High School and University of Illinois Chicago.

Ultimately, Mike decided that his strengths would be best served in the military. Mike proudly served his country as Specialist Michael D. Landt in the United States Army. He served with the 502nd Military Intelligence Company at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, he was stationed in Tikrit, Iraq, where he served as a Farsi linguist in a high-trust, high-skill role. After completing his military service, he continued the same mission as a civilian contractor, traveling throughout the Sunni Triangle during one of the most dangerous operational periods at that time.

Mike spent his entire life as a protector. His career path post-military was no different. Currently, Mike served as Lieutenant, Protective Security Officer for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Contract with Allied Universal Security Services, formerly Paragon Systems. Previously, his roles included Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator and Director of Field Investigative Services. Guided by his experience, education, and dedication, he was moving confidently through the ranks. His absence will be felt every day, in both quiet and profound ways.

Mike’s commitment to service extended well beyond his military career. Mike loved to learn constantly reading and taking classes to better himself. He successfully earned his Master’s Degree in Emergency Management. He was a Post Commander with AmVets Post 202 in Elgin and served as Senior Warden at Elgin Lodge No. 117, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, trustee with the Friends of the Masons, a member of the Scottish Rite and Shriners, Hanover Township Emergency Services, Team Rubicon, and served with the American Red Cross. These organizations were an important part of his life and can be remembered collectively as places where he led, served, and showed up for others. Mike was also a long-time member of Planet Fitness and a one-time visitor.

Nothing mattered more to Mike than his beautiful wife, Karen, the love of his life. He was a loving husband and literally lit up when she walked in the room. His stepdaughter, Samantha, was his bonus daughter in every sense of the word. She made him smile and laugh like no one else could. He was also the proud and beloved dog dad to Austin, Riley, Maisey, and Loki, who were a constant source of joy and companionship. Mike was so proud of his nieces and nephews and loved spending time with each of them. Mike took his role of Godfather to both Marty LaBelle and Delaney Landt very seriously and was always in their corner with a smile and a hug.

Mike passed away suddenly with family by his side. His loss will leave a profound hole in so many hearts. Throughout his life, Mike left an indelible mark on everyone that he touched. He had the rare ability to make people feel welcomed, safe, and valued. Ultimately, it was a life so well lived.

Mike will be deeply missed by his devoted wife, Karen J., née Hildebrandt; amazing stepdaughter, Samantha; his father-in-law, Tom Hildebrandt, his best friend and brother, Steve (Elisabeth) Landt; brothers Dave Landt and Daniel (Ania) Landt; brother-in-law, Kurt Hildebrandt; his nieces and nephews, Mary Cate, Aidan, Delaney and Tommy Landt, Sebastian and Alejandro Hildebrandt, Orion Newton, and Izabella and Laura Landt; great nephew, Xavier Williams; and his brothers for life, Dan L., Mark B., Manny A., Will T., Mike J., and Joe M.; and by many extended family members, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who were like family to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David P. and Karen Landt, née Barkman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mike’s name to Veterans Path to Hope, 805 McHenry Ave., Suite D., Crystal Lake, IL 60014, an organization close to his heart.