Michael James Hislope, age 40, passed away on February 24, 2026. He was born on February 17, 1986, to Pamela Hislope and Darrell Hislope. Michael graduated from Ozark High School in 2004 and went on to live a life defined by service, strength, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Michael joined the United States Army in 2011 and proudly served his country as a Sergeant on active duty with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and later with the Missouri National Guard, completing multiple combat deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Michael proudly served in the Missouri National Guard from 2016-2019. He led with courage, strength, and discipline, earning the respect of those who served beside him. His life was marked by sacrifice and unwavering commitment to something greater than himself.
After leaving the military, he continued his commitment to protecting others by beginning his law enforcement career with the North County Police Cooperative in the St. Louis area. He later returned home to serve his community as a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Department from 2019 to 2026. Whether serving overseas or here at home, he carried himself with integrity, strength, and an unshakable sense of duty.
He was a man who loved working with his hands. He took pride in fixing vehicles and working on home renovation projects. He enjoyed watching sports and was a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Lions. He valued fitness and adventure and had a deep passion for continuing his education. He was always striving to grow and better himself. Above all, nothing brought him more joy than playing hockey with his son Ivan. Time spent on the ice with Ivan was his greatest happiness and where his heart as a father and mentor shined the brightest.
Michael will be remembered as courageous, disciplined, loyal, honorable, determined, steadfast, and deeply devoted to his family. He was a natural leader and mentor who consistently encouraged others to rise higher and become the best version of themselves.
He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Brainard; grandmother, Marilyn McDill; grandfather, Giles Summerville; aunt, Jill Hislope; Austin King, and Jared Hislope. He is survived by his mother, Pamela Hislope; father, Darrell Hislope; wife, Ingrid Vigil Hislope; daughter, Sophia Moore; and son, Ivan Hislope. He is also survived by his brother, Timothy Pickleman and his spouse, Tammy Pickelman; sister, Rachael Rodriguez and her spouse, Richard Rodriguez; sister, Kassandra Hislope; brother, Michael Cook; and sister, Nickole Neels; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home and Life Tribute Center in Ozark, Missouri.