Mike J. Leatherby

Michael ‘Mike’ J. Leatherby, 64, of Rockford, passed away on October 6, 2025. Born in Rockford, IL, on October 11th of 1960 to Harry and Mary (Leaman) Leatherby. Mike was full of life and laughs, earning the nickname ‘Kramer” years ago, due to his great sense of humor and ability to make everyone in the room laugh. Mike loved striking up conversations with everyone he met behind the bar. One of his most memorable experiences was bartending at Debbie Reynolds’ Hollywood Hotel during his time living in Las Vegas. A talented musician, he was passionate about playing the drums and performed in several bands: Puppet, Rock City, Higher Ground, and Shifty Shafer. Not only a love for playing music but listening as well; his favorite of all time being Jethro Tull. On a Sunday, you could find him watching his favorite team play, the Dallas Cowboys.

Mike is survived by his mother, Mary; son, Danny; granddaughters, Eva and Amelia; his first grandson on the way; sister, Lori (Randy) Johnson; niece, Kelli (Nick) Steder; and great-nephew, Kashton. He is predeceased by his father, Harry; grandmother, Eva Leaman; aunts, Jan Fiorello, JoAnn Lundquist; and uncle, Fred Leatherby.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. through 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jay Quinn officiating. Final resting place at Scandinavian Cemetery.

The family asks that, if possible, visitors come dressed in Dallas Cowboys’ attire or colors, in honor of Mike and his favorite team. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.