MALTA — John “Mike” Woodyatt, 68, of Malta, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Dec. 4, 2018. He was born on July 24, 1950 in Dixon to the (late) parents of Bette (Emmert) and John Woodyatt.

Mike was an avid Cubs and Bears fan. He cherished every moment with his family.

Mike was drafted with his brother, Larry, to the Vietnam War when he was 18 until the age of 19. After the war, he moved to Rochelle where he met Dana Smith. They married and had their daughters. One thing the daughters will never forget is their father saying how proud he was of their success.

Mike is survived by his loving children, Michelle (Mike) Hildreth of Malta, Melissa (fiancé Juan Ochoa) of Malta, Cassandra (Armando Piñeda) of Malta, LaDonna Woodyatt (husband Matthew Earing) of Dekalb, and Kimberly (Nick) Venezia of Mount Morris; his brother, Larry (Barb) Woodyatt; sister, Glenda (John) Kalebaugh; dear friend and loving cousin, Geneva Sisson; his cherished grandchildren, Austin Sulser, Bailey Hildreth, Kaiya Hildreth, Milena Hildreth, Devon Woodyatt, Justin Garcia, Xavier Garcia, Raul Torres, Audrey Figueroa, Bionca Woodyatt, Kaylee Earing, Braydon Earing, Joey Venezia, Lenah Venezia and Alessandra Venezia; and his beloved dog, Bella.

Mike was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Kay; and his parents, Bette and John Woodyatt.

Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Harvest Baptist Church, 241 Scott Ave. Rochelle. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. and military honors to follow. 

Cremation Rites to be accorded.