He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Erwin Michael; his maternal grandmother, Carole Schmittling; and an uncle, Gary Michael.
Surviving are his loving family: parents, Brian and Kathleen, nee Schmittling, Michael; a brother, Alex (Mary) Michael; two nieces, Blaire and Quinn; his paternal grandmother, Mary Ellen Michael; his maternal grandfather, Clete Schmittling; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Jeff was a graduate of Althoff Catholic High School, a Pre-Law Scholar at Saint Louis University graduating with honors, a graduate of York University in Toronto with a MS in Philosophy and also a PhD candidate, and most recently University of Michigan with a MS in Information. Jeff was an entrepreneur involved in various business ventures including a vinyl record store, DJ services, music production, and online sales. His passion was traditional jazz.
Jeff was the nicest, sweetest, most thoughtful person you could ever meet. He was always there to help anyone who needed it. Whether it was helping someone move, helping a disabled person or just making sure anyone who needed a ride got one, Jeff was there. Jeff volunteered for many things but wanted no recognition. One project in particular he prided himself on was a community garden in St. Louis city. He worked hours on end without even telling anyone what he was doing.
Jeff loved to travel. His best experiences were traveling through Europe during his semester abroad and throughout Canada while living in Toronto. He especially loved the outdoors particularly camping and hiking. Always focusing on helping others, Jeff even started a hiking club to help others experience the outdoors using it as a means to refocus.
Jeff loved animals. His first pet was a hamster he named JaMall, that he got at the Mall. He especially loved Baxter, the family dog. Whenever Jeff came home, Baxter was at the door to greet him. He was always at his side. Baxter was like a little brother to Jeff.
Jeff always loved family especially spending time with his brother Alex playing tennis or just playing silly games with his nieces Blaire and Quinn. The proudest moment of his life was when he became Quinn’s godfather.
Jeff will truly be missed but he will always be in our hearts. Jeff will be remembered as the loving caring person he was by everyone whose life he touched. We will never forget his smile.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses for Jeff. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit the family from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, 1920 West Belle St, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Memorial services will follow the visitation with a luncheon in the Parish Center following the Mass.