Michael J. Guidish, 72, of Springfield, formerly of Nokomis, died on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021.
Due to COVID-19, a private service will be held for immediate family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Mr. Guidish was born on May 8, 1948, to Mike and Frances (Ruffing) Guidish. He married Linda J. Croon on June 6, 1970, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Nokomis.
Mr. Guidish grew up in Coalton and attended St. Louis Catholic School and Nokomis High School. He was a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and the University of Illinois (Sangamon State). He spent his 34 year career in public education in Nokomis, as an educator, principal and coach. After his retirement from public education, Mr. Guidish served as principal of St. Maurice Catholic School in Morrisonville and Sacred Heart Catholic School in Pana.
He made many great memories during his 40-plus years of painting, serving on the city council, coaching youth softball, soccer, basketball and baseball. He never knew a stranger and loved a good card game, especially poker.
Mr. Guidish is survived by his wife Linda; his children, Brooke (Paul) Myszka of Downs, Erin (Steve) Knodle of Chesterfield, MO, and Nick (Allison) Guidish of Jacksonville; grandchildren, Shane and Luke Myszka, Grant, Carter and Kenzie Knodle, and Emma, Elizabeth and Charlie Guidish; sister, Gloria (Jim) Zupanci of Edwardsville; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Mutzie (Don) Tarter.
Memorials may be directed to the Nokomis Food Pantry, 118 South Spruce Street, Nokomis, IL 62075 or the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702.
