Michael Christian Childs

Michael Christian Childs, 53, of Hannibal, MO, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024.

He was born on October 3, 1971, in La Porte, IN, to John J. and Diane M. (Christian) Childs.

Michael is survived by his father, John J. Childs of Palatine, IL; sister, Mary Childs of Palatine, IL; aunts, Carol Christian of Indianapolis and Missy (Larry) Martin of Rockford, IL; uncles, Frank Christian of Alexandria, VA and David (Debbie) Christian of La Porte; as well as several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane M. Childs; uncle, Peter Christian; and his grandparents.

Michael graduated from La Porte High School in the class of 1990 and went on to attend Loyola University of Chicago, working towards a degree in Liberal Arts with a focus on Criminal Justice. After Loyola, Michael spent a few years at the Adler Planetarium in the Education Department, where his focus was on developing digital learning experiences and using educational technology to link school classrooms to museum resources. He really enjoyed his time at the Planetarium, not just the work he was doing, but also his co-workers.

Following his time at the Adler, Michael entered the hotel/hospitality industry. He took his knowledge of technology and combined it with what he learned during his time as a Security Specialist for Crate&Barrel and assisted various hotel chains in the Chicago area in updating their in-person and online security. He spent a number of years in this freelance position learning more about the hospitality industry and staying current with the ever evolving digital \security business.

After Michael's personal life took him to Missouri, he found himself in Hannibal. He continued his work in security for a local hotel chain. It was there that he became involved in a local animal rescue where he found forever homes for dogs who had been abandoned in his town. Michael ended up adopting one of those puppies- and named her Pepper. Anyone who knew Michael in Hannibal would say that if you invited Michael somewhere, you also invited Pepper.

Cremation has taken place in Hannibal, MO.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. (noon) on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center with Rev. Canon Michelle I. Walker officiating. Inurnment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

A time of visitation will be held from 11a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to PawsChicago.org where your donations go directly to helping homeless animals and building a No Kill community.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.