By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Residents of Fairbury and the surrounding area are mourning the loss of Michael Frickey, longtime Fairbury police officer and most recently, police chief, for the city.

Fifty-eight year old Frickey passed away Saturday morning after a battle with cancer.

Those who worked closest with him had nothing but glowing memories. Mayor Lynn Dameron shared great memories of Frickey.

“Mike was probably one of the finest and most dedicated and honorable men I’ve ever known. His passing leaves a void obviously for his family and his friends and all of us who knew him and had the privilege of working around him. One thing I’ll always remember – his smile and his easygoing demeanor. He always had a smile on his face, even when he faced adversity, he always had a smile on his face. He’ll be remembered for that and he’ll be really deeply missed by all his family and all those whose life he touched,” Dameron said

City Clerk Nancy Widlacki remembers Frickey as a man who had a way with the youth and adults alike. She said he was very well respected by everyone and has definitely left behind large shoes to fill. City Superintendent Leroy McPherson said “Mike was a man that loved life and all kinds in his life. He was always positive, no matter what. He was and always will be my friend. May God bless him for all the good he did in his life. May he smile down upon us.”

For those who wish to pay respects to Mike and the Frickey family, the visitation will be from 3 to 7 Wednesday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Fairbury, with the funeral at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Fairbury.