Michael "Mike" Taylor, 83, of East Peoria, passed away at 9:11pm Thursday, February 16, 2023 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born October 8, 1939 in Peoria to Harry and Betty Parker Taylor.  He married Betty L. Hoffer, she preceded him in death.  He later married Suzan M. Frazee Scharp in Peoria on February 16, 1980.  She survives.

Also surviving are five children, Gina (Bob) Bullock, Lisa Taylor, Bo (Lori) Taylor, Gary (Jennifer) Scharp, Toby Scharp; 20 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren with #32 due; two great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Steve (Carolyn) Taylor, Ed (Marilyn) Boore; two sisters, Patty (Kenny) Fuller, Celine (Bill) Turner; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kay Cotter; and a grandson, Joshua Taylor.

He worked as a demonstrator operator at Caterpillar Inc., retiring after 30 years of service.

Mike was an avid car enthusiast and owner, belonging to the Shelby American Automobile Club (S.A.A.C.), Indiana S.A.A.C., and Midwest Ford Classics.  He also was a Chicago Cubs fan, and the family requests guests to wear a Cubs or car shirt to the visitation.

Cremation has been accorded. Visitation will be on Thursday, February 23, 2023 from 4 to 7pm at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to PCAPS in Peoria, TAPS in Pekin in honor of his love for animals or Ronald McDonald House.