Michael J. Widolff, 65, of West Brooklyn, died on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

He was born August 24, 1958 in Mendota the son of Joseph and Carol (Mann) Widolff.

Michael was a farmer and worked for W.G. Leffelman and Sons for 20 years and the Illinois Department of Corrections for 20 years.

He married Janet Hanson on October 2, 1982 in Holy Cross Catholic Church in Mendota.

He is survived by his wife Janet of West Brooklyn; his children Amy (Bryan Murray) Widolff of Rock Falls, Andrew (Madeleine) Widolff of Fort Worth, Texas, Daniel Widolff of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Elizabeth Widolff of West Brooklyn; 4 grandchildren Violet Widolff, Bradley Schmidt, Oliver Remmers and Elliot Widolff; siblings Diane (James) Devine of Dixon, Lois (Brian) Donovan of Winter Haven, Florida, Randy (Shelley Mink) Widolff and Steven (Paula) Widolff of Amboy.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Sublette with Father Randy Fronek officiating. Private burial will follow at Troy Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:00 - 10:45 a.m. in the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Hall. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.

Donations may be made in Michael's honor by check to the Penguin Project of Sauk Valley, PO Box 1117, Sterling,  IL 61081. The Penguin Project provides individuals ages 10-23 with special needs the support and opportunity to participate in the performing arts.