J. Michael Gillen, Mike age 89, passed on June 3, 2022 from the effects of dementia. He was the beloved husband of Mary Gillen; loving father to Meg Robinson (nee Gillen), Marti Gillen and John Gillen and proud grandfather to Paige Schmidt (nee Gillen), JP Gillen, Graham Gillen and Alexander Robinson. Mike was preceded in death by granddaughter, Merritt Joy Gillen. A blind date at Iowa State University was the beginning of Mike and Mary’s romance that lasted over 65 years. Together they explored the seven continents and five oceans. Mike passed this love of travel on to his children and grandchildren. When not traveling he enjoyed golf, puttering in the garden and a sunset or roaring fire. He had a distinctive laugh, warm smile and a way of making all feel comfortable. He will be missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Merritt Joy’s name to the Verland Organization (www.verland.org).