Michael "Mike" Duane Wethington, Sr.

Michael Duane Wethington Sr was born on November 20, 1951 in Morehouse, MO and passed from this life at his home on January 2, 2024 at the age of 72. Michael was more affectionately known as Mike, Big Mike, Uncle Mike, Daddy, and Popo. Mike was born to Glen and Joann Wethington. He grew up in Missouri and enjoyed working on the cotton farms and racing cars. Mike started dating the love of his life Veronica “Vickey” Thrower in January of 1976 and they married July 31, 1976. Mike immediately became more than a brother-in-law to Vickey’s family. Mike and Vickey moved to Texas the following year and Mike began working as a heavy equipment operator. They settled in Houston, Texas and had their first child, Ambethy in 1979, followed by a son Michael Jr in 1985 and a daughter Haley in 1987. Mike most enjoyed spending time with family no matter the distance between them. In May of 1988 Mike and Vickey moved their family to Conroe, TX where they stayed until moving to Iola in March of 1994. Mike loved living in the country and enjoyed operating equipment at the local coal mine. Mike was the very best heavy equipment operator and always thought the bigger the equipment the better. He spent many years running a D11 at the mine, however, he always said running a track hoe was his favorite. In 2005 he was injured at work and was not able to return to his beloved equipment.

Mike was the friend anyone could count on, whether you needed trees knocked down, a hole dug, or just wanted him to ride along on a road trip or to check cows – he was your guy. To know Mike was to love him. He never met a stranger and always had a huge smile and joke to tell – even if you had heard it before. Mike liked the fact that he was often told that he looked like Hank Williams Jr. due to his tan skin, dark glasses and big cowboy hat.

Mike’s greatest love was his family. He was so proud of his children and supported them in everything they did. He traveled to band competitions, attended all sporting events, and was the most gentle hair brusher around. Mike even taught his kids how to run equipment and work on their cars. Mike and Michael were inseparable and called each other Best Buds. They were always together and spent a lot of time fishing. He made sure his girls felt loved with a rose for any special occasion. Mike, known as Popo to his favorite little people, loved his Grandkids fiercely. From rides on the lawnmower or tractor, riding around with the kids in the back of the truck, fishing, and collecting special rocks - he enjoyed all the things they did together. There were so many simple things that brought Mike joy that he always wanted to share with others, such as the phone calls to say “hey, go look at the pretty sunrise/sunset”. Mike made everyone feel welcome and treated all the extra kids around like his own. He made and decorated the best birthday cakes. He also made the best homemade pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and donuts. He loved big and was a giant, gentle teddy bear. After family, Mikes other love was driving around in a 4-wheel drive Dodge diesel truck.

The last few years Mike had some significant hospital stays and health issues. Vickey was his constant support and provider of anything he needed, including his daily snacks of peanut butter, M&Ms, popcorn, ice cream, and 2 beers. Mike also had Haley who always made sure her Daddy was doing well and was fed during the day.

Mike is survived by his wife of 47 years, Vickey. His children Ambethy and Billy West, Michael Wethington Jr, Haley and Roy Castillo, his grandchildren, Garrett West, Sterling West, Drake West, Avery West, Owen Castillo and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Duke and Kelly.