John Michael “Mike” Floreth, 78, of Stevens Point, WI, formerly of Litchfield, died peacefully on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, in the presence of his daughter.
A digital memorial service was held Saturday, March 6. Private inurnment will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield at a later date.
Mr. Floreth was born on Aug. 8, 1942, in Chicago, to Nelson and Victoria Jane (Swartz) Floreth. He married Carol, and she preceded him in death.
He was a lifelong professional educator, dedicated coach, sports fan and friend. His enthusiasm and encouragement touched his students and athletes.
Mr. Floreth graduated from Litchfield High School with the class of 1960. He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy and earned a degree from Western Illinois University.
He began his teaching career at Southwestern Junior High School, and began his coaching career at Piasa-Southwestern. It was there that he progressed to his first varsity basketball coach position. Subsequently, he taught U.S. History and Chemistry at Litchfield High School, where he was the head varsity basketball coach, scholastic bowl coach and later longtime assistant basketball coach.
Mr. Floreth concluded his academic career by teaching at St. Francis Holy Ghost in Jerseyville and serving as principal at St. Maurice Catholic School in Morrisonville.
He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Valerie (Shaun Sutton) Hay of Plover, WI; sons, Michael (Sara) Floreth of Lakewood, OH, and Dr. Timothy Floreth of Tampa, FL; grandchildren, Cameron “C.J.” Hay, Charles, Michael, Peter and Clare Floreth; and brother, Fred (Lauren Pashayan) Floreth.
In addition to his loving wife, Mr. Floreth was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Janelle Cranford.
Memorials may be directed to the Illinois Education Association Foundation or a tree may be planted in his memory at www.sympathy.legacy.com.
