Obituaries
Obituary: Michael Jay DeLap
He will be remembered for his unwavering love, his generosity, his patriotism, and his dedication to family and community.
Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.
Michael Jay DeLap, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Alexian Brothers Hospice in Elk Grove Village, Illinois.
Michael was born on June 30, 1956, in Moline, Illinois, and was a graduate of Moline High School. Following graduation, he began working as an orderly at Lutheran General Hospital, where he met the love of his life, D’Ann Stromberg. The two married and built a life together rooted in love, dedication, and family.
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Michael went on to serve his country in the United States Army, carrying with him a deep and lasting sense of patriotism. He had a profound love for the American flag and a special admiration for bald eagles, symbols that reflected his pride in his nation.
After his service, Michael worked as a correctional officer, reaching the rank of Lieutenant and was passionate about being a Firearms Instructor at the Joliet Correctional Center, later continuing his career in security at Empress Casino and Silver Cross Hospital. He was known as a hardworking and dependable man who took pride in everything he did.
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Above all else, Michael was a devoted family man. He strived every day to be a loving husband and a great father, and he truly worshipped his family. His home was always open, becoming the gathering place for his children and their friends, who all affectionately knew him as “Dad.” He found great pride and joy in being a guiding presence and source of support in their lives. He also found companionship and happiness in his beloved Boxer dogs, Rocky and Nick, who were an important part of his life.
Michael, above all, had a generous heart and a giving spirit. He believed deeply in helping others, always willing to lend a hand, take on a project, or go the extra mile for those he cared about. His kindness extended into his community, where he brought joy to many by portraying Santa Claus throughout the Christmas season for Silver Cross Hospital, the city of Morris, Joliet Police Santa’s Cops, and anyone who asked.
Michael will be remembered for his unwavering love, his generosity, his patriotism, and his dedication to family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Before you start any project or task or try to solve a problem, he would ask “Did you get yourself a cold drink….”
Michael is survived by his loving and devoted daughter, Andrea Elise DeLap; and brother, Larry DeMassino; Colleen (Jim) Thews, Bentley (Laurie) Stromberg, and Jill (Enrique) Ramos.Nieces and nephews also survive.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, D’Ann DeLap; son, Michael Eric DeLap; his parents, William DeLap and Elizabeth Moody; sister, Mary Susan Wilburn, and brother, Sanford Hotchkiss, Jr.
A private Memorial Gathering will take place at a later date.As it was Michael’s request, cremation rites have been accorded. His arrangements are under the direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, Joliet.
For more information, please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can leave a favorite memory or an online condolence.
