Michael Robert Updike

Michael Robert Updike, 60, of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on July 30, 1965, Mike was the son of Robert and Kathleen (Kraft) Updike of Aurora, Illinois. Mike grew up in Palatine and was a proud graduate of St. Theresa, Palatine High School, and St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota. He married the love of his life, Molly Ann Striedl, on January 7, 1995. Together they made their home in Crystal Lake and raised their two children, Meaghan and Jack, who were the joy of his life.

He began his career as an options trader at the Chicago Board of Trade and later started his own business as a fundraising professional. Mike was charismatic, strong, honest, resilient, and always quick with a joke in both his business and personal dealings.

Mike loved his family, his friends, and his faith with fi erce loyalty. He never missed a game or event in which his kids were involved. He coached them in soccer, basketball, football, and baseball and shared his passion for hockey as a player, referee, and coach. Mike enjoyed golf, reading, trivia, memorable trips with Molly, and numerous family vacations. Fishing later provided calm and relaxation in his life. He was a devoted Chicago sports fan, cheering on the White Sox and Blackhawks, as well as Notre Dame. For more than twenty years, he was a proud member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. He especially loved St. Patrick’s Day and hosted many fun, green, Irish-themed celebrations. Being a lifelong fan of the Grateful Dead, he loved good music as much as good company.

Fourteen years ago Mike received the tremendous gift of a heart transplant. He courageously came back stronger, cherishing every moment given, but his body was not able to overcome this final battle.

We celebrate Mike’s life and his legacy of love with the family and friends he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife, Molly, and their children, Meaghan and Jack. He is also survived by his parents, Robert and Kathleen Updike; his father- and mother-in-law, George and Shirley Striedl; his sisters-in-law, Tammy English and Mary Striedl; and his brother-in-law, Michael (Jenny) Striedl. He leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews—Kaley, Raechel, Jess, Katelyn, Erin, Emma, and Joel—as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mike is reunited in eternal peace with his brother, Tim Updike, and his brother-in-law, Todd Striedl.

Visitation will be Friday, December 12, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Davenport family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake.

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday, December 13, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 451 W. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Gift of Hope, a non-profit organization that assists with organ donation in Illinois and northern Indiana.