Michael Donald "Mike" McKillip

Michael Donald “Mike” McKillip, 71, Converse, passed away at 5:24 am, Saturday January 24, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo.  He was born March 8, 1954, in Kokomo, the son of the late Donald & Joan (Hirst) McKillip.  On March 14, 1975, he married Mary Christine Kucholick and she survives.

A 1972 graduate of Haworth High School, Mike went on to build a long and dedicated career at Chrysler Corporation. He retired in 2006 after more than 30 years of service.

Mike was a man of many passions. He found joy in the open road—whether pedaling on his bicycle or cruising cross-country on his motorcycle. A lifelong enthusiast of old cars and classic machines, he also had a deep appreciation for music, especially country and classic rock. In his youth, Mike earned his Eagle Scout and played little league baseball—early signs of the determination and spirit that would define him throughout his life.

He loved dogs dearly, especially pit bulls, and was known for his generous heart and unwavering loyalty. Mike never met a stranger; he had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life and would help anyone in need. His love for his family was unconditional.

Along with his wife Mary Christine, Mike is also survived by his children, Michael S. McKillip, Aaron M. (Cassie) McKillip, Andrew J. McKillip, Rachel M. (Joshua) James, Patrick R. (Caitlin) McKillip, Branden A. McKillip and Gabriel M. McKillip; grandchildren, Clayton (Grace) McKillip, Braysen McKillip, BrayLee McKillip, BriElla McKillip, Bronx McKillip, Gavin James, Alexis (Eli) Elkins, Claira James, Jaida James, Ashelyn McKillip, Sophia (Jett) Engle, Jackson McKillip, Lincoln McKillip, Porter McKillip, Gage McKillip, Bella McKillip, Mason McKillip, Jace McKillip, Rowan McKillip, Isaiah Wilson, Asher McKillip, Isaiah (Megan) James and Anna James; great-grandchildren, Ezra McKillip, Jett James and Nash James; siblings, Susan Johnson and Matthew (Heather) McKillip; and sister-in-law, Wanda McKillip.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Mark McKillip; brother-in-law, Jim Johnson; and in-laws, Stanley & Dana Kucholick.

A private family prayer service will be held at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Andrew Dudzinski officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Kokomo Humane Society—a fitting tribute to a man who loved animals so deeply. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. 

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