Rev. Michael Edwin Obenauer, age 74, of Yorkville, IL, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024 in the comfort of his home.

Michael was born March 31, 1950 in McLaughlin, SD, the son of the late Edwin and Wilma Barbara Dockter Obenauer.

Michael's path to ministry was shaped by his years of study at the United Theological Seminary in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Before his ordination, Rev. Obenauer began his lifelong vocation as an intern pastor at Yorkville UCC Church. His ministry would later extend to several other churches, Lenora, KS UCC, Medford, Mn UCC, Anthony, KS UCC, Topeka, KS UCC,1st UCC, Elgin , Il. (Interim Pastor), Northern Wyoming Montana Association Conf. Minister, Billings, MT (member of Mayflower UCC), Manhattan Beach, CA (interim Pastor), Wisconsin Conf. Minister (Interim). After his retirement, he served as pulpit supply for his home church in Yorkville. Throughout his ministry, Michael became known as a faith-filled leader, one whose spirited sermons and passionate guidance touched many lives. He had an exceptional ability to connect with people from all walks of life, helping them find solace and strength in their faith. His dedication to his community was evident in every interaction and every sermon he delivered.

Michael married Barbara "Bobbie" Johnson on August 3, 1984 and spent 33 wonderful years together until her passing on May 13, 2017. Michael and Barbara had several Beagles that they cherished. After Barbara's passing, Michael adopted Daisy, who later became Miss Daisy, because he would drive her around on all of his errands.

He accepted Barbara's son Matthew (Christine) Johnson as his own son. He is survived also by Barbara's daughter Mary (Harold) Hoover, Barbara's grandchildren Wendy Hoover, Christopher (Amy) Hoover, great-grandchildren Emily & Daniel Hoover and his brother Mark Obenauer of Oklahoma.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 10:00 am until a memorial service at 11:15 at Yorkville UCC, 409 Center Parkway, Yorkville, IL. Burial of his urn will follow at Plattville Cemetery. Memorials in Michael's memory may be made to the Morris Theater Guild, 516 West Illinois Avenue, Morris, IL 60450 or Yorkville UCC, 409 Center Parkway, Yorkville, Il. 60560.

For information: 815/695-5131 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com