Mike was a devoted husband and father. In his eyes, raising his daughter, Madison, was his greatest accomplishment. Never was there a father more proud than when she graduated college and began her career as a nurse at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis.
In May of 2023, he married the love of his life, Linda. They were creating their future homestead, which Mike jokingly referred to as the mount pilot compound. Together they loved to travel and find new adventures.
Mike graduated from Saint Louis University High School and then went on to Webster University. There he acquired his bachelor’s degree in marketing and communications with a minor in photography.
After a lengthy career at several local Harley Davidson dealerships, he found his true calling customizing and repairing motorcycle seats. Deciding to venture off on his own in 2016, he opened Barstool Gypsy in downtown Belleville.
Mike “Squiggy” was a proud member of the Illinois Motörheads Motorcycle Club since 2006. During his association with the club, Squiggy served as Secretary and was currently serving as the club’s Vice President. The bonds he formed with his brothers led to many wild adventures with both the Illinois and Ohio Chapters.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis E. and Kathleen M., nee Kopff, Bielke.
He is survived by his wife, Linda, nee Ellis, Bielke, whom he married on May 20, 2023;
a daughter, Madison Bielke (Eric Kniepkamp);
two step-children, Jamie (Chris) Brown and Connor (Ashley) Davis;
two siblings, Amy Bielke and Dennis (Tami) Bielke;
five grandchildren, Ayda, Brynlee, and Otto Brown,
and Olivia and Charlie Davis;
four nieces, Hannah and Hayden Bielke,
and Alexis Lasley and Aliyah Cahoon;
and many dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Helping Strays of Monroe County. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Justin Roberts officiating.
According to Mike’s wishes, cremation will follow the services.