In Memory

Michael John Pfeiffer

Michael John Pfeiffer

Michael John Pfeiffer

 
Michael John Pfeiffer was with us for 56 years, departing life on Friday, November 14, 2008 in the loving presence of his brother and sister-in-law. 
 
Beloved first born of Theodora and Herbert Pfeiffer, early in childhood Mike became the oldest child of his stepmother Vi Pfeiffer to whom he was a devoted and generous son. 
 
Left to remember Mike are his father, Herbert; brother, Patrick Pfeiffer (Diane); and sisters Charlotte Olson (Mike Bleavins); Maple Profant (Lawrence); Lynn Pfeiffer (Martin Peavy); his aunt, Genevieve Pfeiffer, his precious kitty Patches, best friend Perry Pollack and family plus the friends collectively known as his “village.” 
 
Mike had many cousins, nieces and nephews, but his nieces Patricia ShermanPfeiffer (Sam) and Katie Bleavins figured most prominently in his life. His doting uncle focus had recently shifted to the next generation where great nephews Walter ShermanPfeiffer, the apple of his eye, and John Riley Fuery occupied the spotlight of his affection.
 
Mike was preceded in death by his beloved mother Vi and his feline companion of many years, Remax. 
 
While completing a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Carroll College Mike found his true calling in the fine art of ceramics. He returned to school to pursue an MFA at Northern Illinois University setting the course for his lifetime concern with the aesthetic considerations of clay.  Employed by Meyer Material for many years to support his art habit, Mike considered himself a potter’s potter and his body of ceramic work tells the story of his journey into this creative world including throwing thousands of forms; all night wood firing; preoccupation with the technical competence of a pot’s foot or lid and interruption of the perfection of a  thrown line with a tease out or side paddled flat. There’s an old adage that it takes 7 years to become a potter but Mike fast tracked through that because he had the knowledge innately. 
 
Mikes artistic nature manifested itself again in the natural world occupation of gardening where he created and maintained expanses of plants, rock and sculpture. His avocation in the arts also included film and music to which he applied a critical eye and ear. At a rather young age he became a fan of the great blues men although his musical interests were truly eclectic. So many creative processes were at work constantly in his mind that it wasnt unusual for him to start projects and never tangibly complete them having explored the idea adequately in his mind. 
 
Summertime would often find him swimming the length of the lake, visiting with friends, playing beach volleyball, taking photographs or enjoying the occasional round of minigolf with nieces and nephews. Wintertime would find him back in the studio, reading, photographing and at the movies. 
 
This shy introspective person, known for kindness, loyalty, love of animals and devotion to family, sought to live a low impact, green life. Choosing to live simply, Mike was far more concerned with the well-being of others than for himself. An incredibly unique and vital man, Mike will be greatly missed for his unending devotion to family and friends.