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Michael Caughey Obituary
Urbana - Michael E. Caughey, born in 1945, died at his home in Urbana on Jan. 13, 2026.
Mike graduated from Orion High School, Class of 1963. He served six years in the U.S. Army, returning to Michigan State University to earn his bachelor's degree, ultimately earning his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin in 1988.
Mike was a scientist. He authored or coauthored over 20 publications. Mike worked at the Illinois State Water Survey for 22 years, retiring from the position of Atmospheric Chemist in 2010.
At leisure, Mike enjoyed diverse activities, from photography and woodworking, to travel, biking, hiking and canoeing.
Mike was preceded in death by parents, Elbert and Violet Caughey, and sister Pat Hansell.
Left behind to miss Mike's thoughtfulness and wit are brother, Dave Caughey; sister Karen Caughey; and Pat's children, Andy (Jenny) Hansell and Kelly (Clive) Lankwarden, and their children, Julia, Maria and Lydia Hansell and Ella and Anna Lankwarden.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Caughey
2 Entries
Jenette Raymond (Biller)
February 16, 2026
Mike was an amazing student - I was in most of his classes at Orion High and always dreaded his ability to break the curve! Besides being brilliant, he was funny. I always treasured knowing him. He will be missed by is family and his friends. God Bless Mike!
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Tom Duncan
February 15, 2026
Mike and I were distant cousins. We spent a lot of time together when we were young. For some reason we walked across the centennial bridge to Davenport from Rock island. We also went hunting with our dads on their farm! I graduated with Mike from Orion High School.
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