Obituary of Michael-T. Darby

Michael T. Darby, age 43, of West Frankfort, IL passed away at 6:01 p.m. Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at Franklin Hospital in Benton Illinois. He was born May 24, 1967 in West Frankfort, IL to the late Russell Frederick and Marilyn (nee Litsch) Darby. He graduated from St. John the Baptist School and Frankfort Community High School in West Frankfort. Michael was very athletic and played basketball in elementary school and was a member of the wrestling team in high school. He then attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and graduated from the College of Technical Careers with a bachelor's degree in avionics/electronics. He was employed in the heating and air conditioning industry. Joining the National Guard while a senior in high school, Michael served for eight years, attaining the rank of sergeant. After traveling to Tashkent, Uzbekistan to become engaged, Natalya Zimakina became his bride on February 5, 2005 in West Frankfort. Michael is survived by his wife: Natalya Darby; mother: Marilyn Darby Arnett; brother: Gregory Darby; grandparents: Ferd and Bert Litsch; and Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and nieces. He was preceded in death by his father and an infant sister. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at Calvary Bible Church in West Frankfort, IL with Rev. Roger Teal officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 5, 2010 at the Union Funeral Home in West Frankfort, IL and from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at Calvary Bible Church. Interment will be held at Tower Heights Cemetery in West Frankfort, IL. Online condolences of sympathy may be made at www.unionfh.com