Michael Lee Provaznik, 58, passed away at 5:27am on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at his home. He was born on May 21, 1966, in Highland, Illinois, to Lois (Cox) Provaznik and Frank Provaznik. Survivors include his children: Brandy Provaznik of Collinsville, Jacob Provaznik of Arnold, Missouri, and Ashley Provaznik of Alton, a sister and brother in law: Sandy (Chuck) Stamm of Wood River, a brother and sister in law: Dan (Joanne) Provaznik of Maryville, Illinois, his nieces and nephews: Stephanie, Erica, April, Bob and Darrell.
Mike's cancer returned in June of 2024. He had been in remission since September of 2022. In his final days, Mike was loved on by many family and friends. You were likely to see Mike with a beer in his hand and a cigarette in his mouth. For most of Mike's life, he drove a semi truck, he always said he did it because he knew how to do it, not because he enjoyed it, but when he got cancer, he missed being behind the wheel of the truck.
Mike would not hesitate to tell you how much he hated cats, but he was "Grandpa" to all of the cats that Ashley has cared for including stray/neighborhood cats (that he picked out names for). Mike was loud and loved being surrounded by people, especially if they were listening to him tell some long winded story.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his oldest brother, Steve, his daughter Ashley's mom: TerraLee Pearce who was his long time girlfriend.
A celebration of life will be held at B n R Cavern at a later date.
Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.
Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of cremation arrangements.
