Michael B. Cowling, affectionately known as Big Mike, was a man whose laughter was as hearty as his appetite for life. Born on Christmas Day in 1950, in the city of Chicago, IL to parents Gladys "BB" Davis, Christine, and Malachi Cowling.

Michael was a proud graduate of John Marshall Harlan High School, class of 1968 – a time when bell-bottoms were in, and he was out, tearing up the town. He didn't stop there; he hit the books and earned a Bachelor of Arts from Governors State University in 2016, proving it's never too late to be a college Heartthrob.

Professionally, Michael was nothing short of a legend. He began throwing people over his shoulder as a Judo & Karate Instructor in 1973, which we all know was just his way of hugging people really fast. In 1977, he traded his black belt for a badge, becoming an Illinois State Trooper. His dedication and hard work saw him rise through the ranks, becoming an Illinois State Investigator in 1982 and then an Illinois State Inspector in 1986, he continued working with the Illinois Gaming Board until retirement.

Michael's interests were simple yet profound: barbequing, cracking open a cold Becks, and spending time with his family and friends. He believed that the best things in life aren't things at all, but the memories we make with the people we love. Described by those who knew him as funny, passionate, and adventurous, Michael never shied away from a challenge.

He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and love through his children: Paul Jones(Ginger), Lucille "Lupe" Cowling-Neal(Derrick), Michele Adams(Delores), Jillian Cowling(Letitia), and Justin Cowling(Janet), bonus children Kristie(Rogelio), and Wade((Loraine)(Gicela) and his beloved 26 grandchildren. His siblings Phyllis Fanroy, Pat Jones, Denise Herring, Cecelia "Suga" Davis, Kimberly Carter, and RC Carter(Treyce), will continue to share stories that will keep his memory alive, alongside a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, loved ones and countless friends who were all touched by his infectious humor.

Michael was preceded in passing by his parents Malachi, Christine, and Gladys "BB," his brothers Kirk and Larry "Sonny," and his son Michael Cowling. Each of them played a pivotal role in shaping the man he became.

So, as we remember Michael, let's not dwell on the silence left in his wake, but rather fill it with the echoes of his laughter and the warmth of the stories he left us. After all, as he would say, "LATER".