Michael J. “Swifty” Gagen, 73, of Fairview Heights, IL, born May 9, 1950, in East St. Louis, IL, died Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at Freeburg Care Center, Freeburg, IL.
Mike had worked at Barcom Security as a surveillance analyst. Previously he had managed various nightclubs and bars. Mike enjoyed his family and friends and his weekly “Church Meetings” at Wings.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Helen, nee Dumbeck, Gagen; a brother-in-law, Kenneth Wylie; and a sister-in-law, Doris Gagen.
He is survived by a sister, Judy Wylie; a brother, Jim “Rocky” Gagen; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his beloved cat, Whiskey.
Mike gifted his body to Saint Louis University School of Medicine.
Funeral: A celebration of Mike’s life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Tim & Joe’s Tavern, Belleville, IL.
“All I wanted to do was make people smile.”