Michael Broenneke
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Obituary for Michael E. Broenneke

MICHAEL BROENNEKE, 64 loving father and husband FREEPORT - Michael Broenneke 64 yrs. old, Passed away on New Year's Eve in Freeport, IL. Michael was born in Chicago to Vincent and Dorothy (Hennessy) Broenneke. He was the oldest of six. He grew up in Chicago where he enjoyed playing a wide variety of sports at Kennedy High School until he graduated in 1968. He met his life-long companion, Phyllis (Travis) Broenneke, at a dance in 1970 before he was drafted and served one tour of duty in Vietnam in 1971. He then went on to attend WIU for a short time. While there he studied psychology and participated in the competitive hockey program, later he went on to play in the Oak Park Hockey Association. Besides his intense love of a variety of sports, he was a passionate lover of classic rock music and woodworking. Michael slowly started to suffer health issues as a result of his time spent serving but was fortunate enough to have found a devoted, loving and caring partner in Phyllis. They married in 1977 and she stuck by his side, cared for him and gave him two daughters, Wendy Broenneke and Shannon Broenneke. In 1989, the family of four left the city and settled here in Freeport. His years here were spent surrounded by them, other family and all their friends in a busy home constantly filled with good tunes and lots of love. He created beautiful pieces of furniture during his time at home, many of which his family still use and enjoy to this day. He succeeded in passing on his love of music to his daughters and his grandchildren. He was a laid back, light hearted, sweet and funny dude. His passing was sudden and he will be sorely missed by his wife, daughters, son in law Kris Moore and close family friend Missy Burns, among many, many others. Especially his three doting grandchildren, who spent their early years always helping their grandmother take care of "Gamp," Layla Moore, Madison Moore and Aiden Broenneke. Survived by his mother and five siblings, Daniel Broenneke, Patrick Broenneke, Mary Ann (Schaffer) Broenneke, Kathleen (Mitchner) and Donna Broenneke, and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd. on Tuesday and Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Funeral Service will be on Thursday at 11 a.m. followed by burial at Oakland Cemetery. Online condolences and memories can be share with the family at www.schwarzfh.com.
Funeral Home
Schwarz Park Blvd. Chapel - Freeport
608 S. Park Blvd. Freeport, IL 61032
(815) 235-7371
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