Michael L. Figueroa, 79 of Galena, IL passed away Friday, January 27, 2023, at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. Funeral services will be 11 AM, Friday, February 3, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery; Galena where military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. Mike was born and raised in Chicago. He attended the following grade schools, Our Lady of Victory, St. Pascal, and St. Priscilla. He graduated from St. Patrick’s High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, he attended and graduated from Loyola University, Chicago with a Bachelor of Science degree in political science. He entered the field of law enforcement where he was a narcotics agent for 26 years, retiring in 1993. Mike was a member of American Legion Post #193, Galena Elks Lodge #882, United States Marine Corps Force Recon Association, NRA, Safari Club International, and the Marine Corps League. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Liborio and Ruth Figueroa, and three sisters Genevieve Rogers Delores Rogers, and Jean Lohse. Friends of Mike would like to extend a special thank you to Margo Simmons, Dr. Matt Gullone, Cory Fleege, and the nursing staff at Midwest Medical Center for their care of Mike.
Michael Figueroa
I’m very sad to hear of Mike’s passing. He was a very dear friend of my brother, Jay Sorci, and our whole family considered him family. My nieces and I will miss him dearly. Fly with the angels, Mike. You were one of the good guys.
To the Family and Friends of Mike,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Mike. I have known Mike as a recognized and dedicated law enforcement professional, working with him at the beginning of our careers, and a personal friend for over 50 years. Although I relocated to the East coast almost 50 years ago, I would meet with Mike and other common friends on my twice-yearly visits to Chicago, usually at the quarterly luncheons held there, prior to COVID. Mike and I talked on the phone at least 3 to 4 times a week, even sometimes more frequently, to discuss various topics and issues, including the Bears and various TV programs we both enjoyed. Although we did not always agree, we respected each other’s opinions – both of us having strong views.
A special thanks to his “Galena Family” who welcomed him to the community and provided support, assistance and comfort to him over the last 3 to 4 months. Although I have never met any of you, I believe I know each of you. Mike was so grateful and appreciative of all your efforts and he would say to me often “they are golden”.
Anyone who knew Mike realizes he was a true friend who would do anything to help you. His tough exterior belied his deep caring nature. I will miss the phone calls with Mike but he suffered and was in excruciating pain during the last few months. “Mike, you now have all the answers to the questions we pondered.” May he rest in eternal peace.
Jack Dowling