Official Obituary of
Michael J. Greeley
February 12, 2022
Michael Greeley Obituary
Michael J. Greeley, 52, passed away on February 12, 2022. He was in the comfort of family and friends,
listening to music he and his friends created as he transitioned to his new journey. Mike had been
diagnosed with cancer on his birthday, seven years ago. He fought the battle like a true warrior. We
wish he could have won.
Mike was adopted shortly after birth by Michael and Georgia Greeley and grew up in Maine until moving
with his mother to Park Ridge, IL when he was ten years old.
Mike was a bike messenger and long-time drummer who played with several bands. He met his life
partner, Debra Ty Coon in 2005 and they shared the last 17 years with a similar zest for life. They rode
bikes together, jointly created music, and had a genuine bond that was apparent to all who spent time
with them. They had the type of relationship many seek but never find. When Mike’s illness progressed
to the point he could no longer work, Deb supported him by working multiple jobs.
Mike was a hard-hitting drummer which earned him the nickname “Animal”. Even in the fast and
aggressive punk and metal music he so enjoyed, he would include intricacies on his cymbals reminiscent
of early Police songs.
A man who was not afraid to speak his mind and stand up for what he believed to be right, Mike made
many friendships with others who were just as genuine. He made each of friends feel that their
relationship was special. His friends offered several of Mike’s unique character traits: wild, strong,
caring, fierce, honest, and true.
Before his illness relegated Mike to a more sedentary lifestyle, his energy was legendary. He rode
thousands of miles as a bike messenger, and once rode solo from Chicago to Maine.
Mike was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his partner Debra Coon, his sister Charlotte
Hallworth (Rich), niece Lauren Wallis (Tim), nephew Eric Hallworth (Grizel), and many cousins and
friends in Chicago and Maine.
A gathering was held in Chicago in February for his Illinois ‘family’, fittingly in Mike and Deb’s favorite
bar. There will be a celebration of life from 5:00-8:00 on July 17 th at Wilson Funeral Home at 24 Shaker
Road in Gray. A short memorial service will begin at 6:30.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree in Mike’s memory or donate to a charity of your choice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael J. Greeley, please visit our floral store.
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