Michael Scott Sibley was born March 2, 1985, to Harold Keith Sibley and Diana Louise St. John-Sibley at Mitchell County Hospital in Beloit, Kansas.
"Mike," as he was known to family and friends, attended Beloit Elementary and Beloit Junior High School, where he participated in and excelled in wrestling and football. He later received his high school diploma from Hutchinson, Kansas, an accomplishment of which he was very proud.
Mike was truly a stranger to no one. With his outgoing personality, he could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, whether he had known them for years or had only just met them. He was quick with a joke and a grin and was never far from a song or a dance move.
Music was a big part of Mike's life. He loved it all-from rap to country and everything in between. He loved to sing and had an incredible ability to remember lyrics, often belting out a song at any time of the day or night.
Mike was always on the go. If he wasn't working, he was usually planning his next project. A skilled laborer, he roofed houses, laid carpet, tinkered with vehicles, worked on storage units, and helped with the family business. Whatever the job, Mike took pride in his work and was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed him.
Throughout his life, Mike battled addiction and worked hard to overcome its challenges. He found a home and a family at Serenity House in Salina, where he thrived, worked, and built relationships with people who became very important to him. He later returned to Beloit, obtained his CDL, and helped his sister and brother-in-law with the family business.
Mike experienced approximately three years of sobriety, an accomplishment his family was incredibly proud of. His journey was not always easy, but it gave him a special understanding and compassion for others who were struggling. He was often there when someone needed a pep talk, encouragement to stay sober, or simply someone who understood what they were going through.
That compassion extended far beyond those he knew. Mike did not judge people by their circumstances. He would help someone who was homeless or struggling in any way he could, whether that meant giving them a ride, offering money for a bicycle, buying them a burger, or simply taking the time to listen. Mike had a caring heart and would be there for someone at any hour of the day or night.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Keith Sibley and Diana St. John; his grandparents, Richard St. John, Betty and Harold D. Sibley and other loved ones.
Left to mourn his passing are his daughter, Joslyn Sibley of Salina; sister, Kara Hiserote (Jamie) of Beloit; brothers, Anthony Sibley, Josh St. John (Heather) of Manhattan; sister, Mariah (Sarah) Eikenberry; maternal grandmother, Barbara St. John; his nieces and nephews, including Branson, Korbin, Tierra, Lillian Hiserote, Jackson St. John, and Carson Sibley; stepfather, Warren Pilcher; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; and his Serenity House family in Salina.
Mike was a stranger to no one. Even if he didn't know you, chances are he would start a conversation, and before long, the two of you would have a story to share. He never judged others and understood that everyone carries struggles others may not see.
Mike will be deeply missed not only by those who loved him, but also by the many people whose lives he touched along the way. His family is especially proud of the years he fought for his sobriety and hopes his story can serve as encouragement to others facing addiction. If you are struggling, please reach out for help. You do not have to fight the battle alone. There are people willing to help.
Funeral service will be August 21st at 1:00 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Service. Cremation has taken place, & memorials may be given to the Family Expense Fund or the Serenity House of Salina. Memorials can be sent to Roberts Family Funeral Home, 910 N. Campbell Ave., Beloit, Ks 67420.