Michael L. Gyorkos

Byron – Michael L. Gyorkos, age 74, departed from this world on October 3, 2025. He was born on June 2, 1951 to Frank and Mary “Mercedes” (Casteel) Gyorkos in Springfield, IL. He graduated from Rockford West High School in 1969 and earned his bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. Mike married the love of his life, Marsha Beitel, on May 20, 1978. Their lives were blessed with the birth of their two beautiful children, and they built a wonderful life full of love over the next 47 years.

Mike had a fulfilling career as a manufacturing engineer through his work at Rockwell International in Rockford beginning in 1976, then transferring to Cedar Rapids Iowa, in 1982. He worked for the next 30 years at Hamilton Sundstrand in Rockford, retiring in 2014. He especially enjoyed his travels to Singapore during his tenure at Sundstrand and the friendships he cultivated there. After retirement he spent his extra time working with the grounds crew at Prairie View Golf Course, where he took pride in maintaining the beauty of the greens.

He was a man with a strong faith in God and was a member of the United Church of Byron. Mike was a man of many interests and enjoyed trying new hobbies. He found joy in the art of woodworking, tinkering, gardening, bird watching, and building all sorts of birdhouses. Mike was a true history buff; he enjoyed discovering his genealogical heritage and thoroughly enjoyed participating in Civil War reenactments. Mike believed in serving his community and enjoyed being an alderman on the Byron City Council for many years. He leaves behind a legacy of passion and dedication that touched the lives of many.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Fran (Ron) Heisler and Christopher Gyorkos. He is survived and missed by his wife, Marsha of Byron; children, Kimberly Gyorkos of Byron and Jeffrey (Kristen Acton) Gyorkos of Rockford; two grandchildren; siblings, Kay (Jerry) Kolls, Becky (Rich) Cashman, Patty Gyorkos Marinelli, Frank (Margaret) Gyorkos, and Anne (Pete) Prehn; sister-in-law, Patti Gyorkos; brother-in-law, Greg (Sandy) Beitel and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Visitation will be held on October 15th, 2025 from 5pm to 7pm at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home, 506 W. Merchant St, Byron, IL. A funeral service will be held on October 16th, 2025 at 11am at The United Church of Byron, 701 W 2nd St, Byron, IL with Pastor Tyler Spellious officiating. Memorials are established in his name.