Mercer County is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of two beloved community members following a fatal incident that claimed their lives earlier this week. Mercer County Coroner Greg Larson has officially identified the victims as 63-year-old Michael Millizer of East Moline and 70-year-old Robert Haskins of Matherville. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving their families, friends, and the broader region in a state of deep grief and disbelief.
Authorities confirmed the heartbreaking news late Tuesday after responding to a serious incident in a rural part of Mercer County. Emergency crews arrived to find that both Michael and Robert had sustained fatal injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, neither man could be revived. The cause of the incident remains under investigation, but what is already clear is the profound impact this loss has had on those who knew and loved these two men.
A Tribute to Michael Millizer
Michael Millizer, 63, of East Moline, was known throughout his community for his steadfast work ethic, kind heart, and love for his family. A longtime resident of the Quad Cities area, Michael was a man who believed in the value of hard work and lived a life grounded in humility and service. Friends and neighbors remember him as someone who could be counted on — whether to lend a tool, offer a helping hand, or share a story over morning coffee.
Michael worked for many years in the manufacturing industry, where he earned the respect of colleagues for his attention to detail, reliability, and mentorship. Outside of work, he found joy in the simpler things — fishing along the river, tending to his garden, spending time with his grandchildren, and cheering on the Chicago Bears no matter the season.
He was a proud father and a devoted grandfather, always eager to attend school events, sports games, and family gatherings. His presence brought calm, his laughter brought joy, and his absence now leaves an unimaginable void.
Honoring the Life of Robert Haskins
Robert Haskins, 70, of Matherville, was a man of deep wisdom, strong faith, and unwavering loyalty to those he cared about. Born and raised in Mercer County, Robert was a pillar in his community — a neighbor many looked to for guidance, a friend known for his warm demeanor, and a family man whose love was unconditional.
Robert spent the majority of his life working in agriculture and maintenance, where his hands shaped the land and his knowledge helped generations. His passion for the outdoors was evident in every part of his life — whether he was hunting, hiking, or simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of rural Illinois.
He was also deeply involved in his local church, where he served as a volunteer and mentor to younger members. Faith was a cornerstone of Robert’s life, and he carried it with quiet strength. His heart was generous, his morals firm, and his sense of humor ever-present.
Those who knew Robert best speak of his steady character, his wisdom, and his ability to truly listen — offering thoughtful advice, gentle encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of both Michael and Robert has sent shockwaves through Mercer County and beyond. As word of their tragic passing spread, an outpouring of support flooded in from friends, family, coworkers, and community members who were touched by their lives.
Vigils are being planned to honor their memories, and local churches are organizing gatherings to support grieving families. Their sudden absence has left deep emotional wounds — not just in the homes they leave behind, but in the hearts of everyone who crossed their paths.
As we mourn, we also celebrate who they were: Men of integrity, kindness, and unwavering strength. Their legacies will endure not only in the stories shared in their memory, but in the lives they impacted every single day.
Final Words
As Mercer County grieves the tragic and untimely deaths of Michael Millizer and Robert Haskins, we hold their families in our hearts and surround them with love and prayer. Their lives were meaningful, their spirits unforgettable, and their memory everlasting.
May they both rest in eternal peace.
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