Stephen Michael Pendergast's Obituary
Stephen Michael Pendergast, lovingly known as Mike, age 71, of Charleston, IL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025. He was born on July 29, 1953, in Mattoon, IL, to John William Pendergast and Eugenia (Centers) Pendergast.
Mike is survived by his beloved companion, Roberta Creek; his two sisters, Althea (Dave) Pendergast Myerscough and Kelly (Jeff) Miller, both of Charleston, IL; his nieces and nephews, Ian (Danielle) Pendergast White, Sierra Pendergast White, Noah Miller, McClain Miller, and Isaac Miller; and great-nieces and nephews, John Pendergast White, Shiloh Miller, Cooper Miller, and Jaxson Barrett. He is also survived by his loyal dog, Gabby. He was preceded in death by his parents and his nephew, Ethan Miller.
A graduate of Charleston High School, Mike went on to earn his associate degree from Lake Land College and later received his Bachelor of Science from Sangamon State University. His early career took him to Decatur, IL, Bradenton, FL, Birmingham, AL, Memphis, TN, Champaign, IL, and Charleston, IL, where he worked in various roles, including as a Regional Sales Manager for Fort Worth Steel. In 1982, he returned to his roots in Charleston, where he dedicated himself to farming the family’s land—a farm that has been in the Pendergast family for over 150 years. He was proud to be a fifth-generation farmer. He took great joy in teaching his nieces and nephews about farming and how to operate tractors. He was deeply passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation.
Mike was a man of many talents and passions. After high school, he worked as a studio artist in Nashville, TN. A gifted musician, he played both guitar and keyboard, wrote many songs, and found deep joy in music. While working as a studio musician, he was offered a touring opportunity with the artist he had been recording with, but he chose to return to Illinois to pursue his college degree. Mike was a professional musician for many years. He was admired in the music community for his incredible talent, love for music, and his constant pursuit of perfection. His joy when performing was outwardly visible and infectious.
He also loved the river, the woods, being outdoors, and could fix just about anything. Mike enjoyed visits and conversations with family and friends. He often expressed how proud he was of his family and will be missed dearly.
He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, the Elks, and the Moose.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 921 Madison Ave, Charleston, IL. A Memorial Mass will follow at 12:00 p.m., officiated by Father Michael Berndt. Inurnment will follow at Mound Cemetery, Charleston, IL.
Memorial donations in Mike’s honor may be made to the Sarah Bush Lincoln Cancer Center, 1000 Health Center Dr., Mattoon, IL 61938.
To view the obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or share a memory, please visit www.adamsfuneralchapel.com. Adams Funeral Chapel of Charleston, IL, is assisting the family with arrangements.
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