““All you gotta do is” &
“Piss on em if they can’t take a joke”
Life story
Michael David Commerford was born April 6, 1953 to Valle Harold and Juanita Mae (Horn) Commerford. He married the love of his life, Debbie on August 15, 1977 and had two daughters, Michelle and Valerie.
Their love story all began because Debbie saw him at a Foghat concert and she used to chase this guy in a purple Mustang on Festus Main Street. She finally caught up with him at Chrysler where they both worked. They went on their first official date on June 23, 1976 and from then on they were inseparable.
Mike loved his family and was so PROUD to be a COMMERFORD. ALL THAT IRISH BLOOD. He loved to fish with his red shad worms and drink Busch beer and absolutely loved rock and roll. Mike LOVED music, he could play songs on his guitar without sheet music simply by ear. He was an all-star at Foosball and taught his wife, Debbie, to play with him so they could run the table together. They didn't lose often but if they did he figured out how to beat them the next time because he was always analyzing to be one step ahead. He was a proud lifetime member of the Festus/Crystal City Elks. Even when they moved to the Lake of the Ozarks for retirement he wouldn't change is home lodge. He never met a stranger, he had the best laugh and the biggest smile. He was a proud Grampy of Corbin and I know he would have loved Sydney and Londyn too.
I'm sitting here on the couch and reflecting the past holidays. It's hard without you here and I miss you terribly.
You'd be amazed at how much Corbin has grown. I think he won't be cursed with my shortness after all. He's taller than me now. 🤣 Thank goodness for that. He's such a sweet caring young man. You'd be proud of him, without a doubt. His love for music hasn't diminished and seems to follow your tastes of classic rock.
Steven and I are still happily married and I will strive for our marriage to endure like yours and mom's. It isn't always easy but nothing that is great in life is. You taught me that, among countless other things.
I hope you don't mind taking care of Maisey until it's our time. I miss her as well and her favorite thing in the world (besides Steven) is chicken nuggets. Please look after her, she's a sweet girl.
I have a job now that I'm really loving. I'm truly hoping it becomes permanent. I finally found my thing other than being a Mom. I'm sure you had some hand in helping me find my way. Thank you.
I love you and miss you dad.
An old pic I believe from 2002 Xmas Party at Kitty & Johns home. I've tried, but could not remember a time I didn't see a smile on Mike's face! Good looking bunch.
We wish we were able to meet you because we sure do love Valerie, Momma Deb (Nana), Michelle, Steven and Corbin. We lucked out as having them as a part of our lives, but I just wish we would have been fortunate enough to have you as well. I found a lot of comfort in meeting the Commerford side of the family and I'm thankful because it helps me to know that you were much like them. I do hope that you are watching down on us and I hope you know that you are always thought of and will never be forgotten.
When we were 16 Curt Grass and I decided to form a band. We needed a vocalist and a place to practice. Mike provided both. We practiced in Uncle Valley"s attic. I was the drummer [dad had a couple of old drums] until we found a real drummer. The band later replaced Mike as singer and we became the roadies. He was still essential to the band as he was able to carry all of our equipment in Valley's pickup. There were several occasions when played at some scary venue out in the boonies when it was very comforting to have someone as tough as Mike around. The band was called Purple Haze and I think Mike came up with the name as he was a big fan of Hendrix.
Valerie CommerfordThank you for the awesome memory. I did not know this!
JC
James Commerford149w
Cousin Mike
I spent a lot of time with cousin Mike growing up in Crystal City. His mom and my mom were always planning day trips to a creek or Sun Valey or some other fun place to run around and burn energy. We spent a lot of time together at family parties. I didn't know he got into music until I moved back to Festus in 1979. I was amazed and his ability to play and remember all the songs, and he loved doing it. Mike and Debbie were always so welcoming at their house south of Festus in Olympian Village. Always willing to share their pool on a hot summer day. And like Val said, he had a great laugh; which he used often. Still miss you Mike.
First time Dad ever held me. This is a reminder to me just how precious life is and that we shouldn't take our time with our family for granted. Every moment, even from the beginning is special. I love you Dad! I know that I have made mistakes in my life but I hope that you see I am trying to be better everyday. I hope you are proud of me. Keep watching over us because we need you. Always
Mike laughing
Mike and Debbie dancing to ZZ TOP
