Merrill F. “Mike” Taylor, 73 of Abingdon, passed away at 8:45 p.m. Friday, September 13, 2019, at his home. He was born October 7, 1945, in Galesburg, the son of Fred and Doris (Derry) Taylor. Mike is survived by his companion of 29 years, Mary Stroops of Abingdon; one son, Michael Taylor of Abingdon; four grandchildren, Logan, Courtney and Martha Taylor and Robert Powell; one great-grandson; his brothers, Larry (and Anne) Taylor of Galesburg and Paul “Pat” Taylor of Berwick; and his sister-in-law, Janet Taylor of Galesburg; Mary’s children, Mike, Traci and Jennifer; and nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Tony Taylor, one brother, Roger Taylor, and one daughter-in-law, Karen Taylor. Mike grew up in Berwick and graduated from Roseville High School in 1964. He later attended Occupational Training at Carl Sandburg College. He worked in maintenance and machinery repair at Outboard Marine Corporation for 19 years, Gates Rubber Company for 6 years and Maytag for 3 years. He was a member of the Abingdon Road Knights and enjoyed taking his 1931 Ford and 1950 Mercury lowrider to area car shows. He also liked hotrods and auctions and helped Dan Boyer and Boyer Auction Service. He helped organize Berwick Appreciation Day. As he requested, cremation will be accorded. The family will celebrate Mike’s life from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, September 22, 2019, at the Abingdon American Legion. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
