William Walsh
Wood River | Save
William Michael "Mike" Walsh, 78, passed away peacefully at 4:13 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Alton Memorial Hospital.
He was born on November 6, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of the late William and Patricia (Meyer) Walsh. On August 19, 1968, he married the love of his life, Janice (Naville), in Wood River, Illinois. Together they enjoyed nearly 58 years of marriage.
In addition to his beloved wife, Mike is survived by his three sons and two daughters-in-law, Jimmy and Annie Walsh of O'Fallon, Missouri, Sean and Kerry Walsh of Lake St. Louis, Missouri, and Marc Walsh of Mascoutah, Illinois; five cherished grandchildren, Annabelle, Colten (Elizabeth), Cade, Drake, and Kennedy; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Brian Walsh, and his parents, William and Patricia Walsh.
Mike graduated from Alton Marquette High School in 1965 and Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville in 1978. Mike proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966 and served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus and dedicated 32 years of service to McDonnell Douglas before retiring in 2008.
Above all else, Mike was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his grandchildren, watching them grow, and cheering them on at their many sporting events. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, had a lifelong passion for horse racing and you could always find him watching either with one of his dogs sitting in his lap. His loyalty, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Mike's legacy of catholic faith, service, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love him.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mike's life during a memorial visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Holy Angels Parish in Wood River. A Memorial Mass will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. The following day, a private burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery for immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to 5-As Alton Area Animal Aid Association and will be accepted at the funeral or online at https://www.fiveas.org/.
Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.
Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of arrangements.
Pitchford Funeral Home
