Mike was a proud U.S. Navy veteran who went on to become a skilled sheet metal worker after completing a four-year apprenticeship. His career evolved as he rose to the role of Construction Superintendent, a position he excelled in with dedication and expertise.
A loyal member of New Hope Church, Mike also stayed active with his local cycling club and was a regular at 24HR Fitness. He had a passion for the outdoors, and there was nothing he loved more than spending time with his black lab, Boy. Every evening after dinner, Mike and his wife Mary would take a walk together, often heading to the park for a game of frisbee. They were avid boaters for several years, enjoying many weekends out on the water. Mike’s love for fitness extended to cycling, which he did for about 10 years, and swimming, which he incorporated into his weekly morning routine.
December of 2023 brought a new chapter in his life as he became a proud grandfather to his grandson, Jack. Mike adored Jack and took immense joy in teaching him things like the sounds of a trains and trucks ("choo choo" and “beep beep”).
A true sports enthusiast, Mike was a loyal supporter of all local teams—especially the Houston Texans, Houston Astros, Texas Longhorns, and Houston Cougars. His sports room, filled with memorabilia, made it known that he was NOT a Cowboys fan!
Mikes favorite band was the Rolling Stones, which he commemorated by getting a tattoo of the band’s logo on his chest during his military service by bending the rules, just a tad, and making a visit to Tijuana.
As a young boy, Mike dabbled in sports, including football and boxing. He also had fond memories of spending time at his grandmother’s store, where he was the only boy among his cousins, earning him constant teasing. He frequently shared memories of visits to his granddad's house in Hallettsville, TX, and cherished time with his Aunt Sallie and Uncle Dave.
Faith was a cornerstone of Mike’s life. He and Mary married in their mid-thirties, and Mike often joked, "Nothing else was going on, so we just got married. Mary was all over me." This playful humor was a signature part of his personality. Their bond grew strong, as they were inseparable—sharing everything from day-to-day moments to big life decisions. Mary says that Mike made her a better person. As they neared retirement, Mike started to talk about slowing down, but he remained the loving, steady presence in Mary’s life. Together, he and Mary had something truly special—God brought them together when they needed each other the most.
Throughout his life, Mike was a constant source of love, laughter, and light. His greatest gift was his ability to make those around him feel better, brighter, and more loved.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Annie Atkins and Alfred West, his aunt, Sallie and uncle, Dave.
Those left to cherish Mike's memory are his loving wife (just 2.5 months shy of 25 years), Mary West; his daughter, Francesca Holbrook (Jonathan); his sister, Rhonda Davis (Jay); his 16-month-old grandson, Jack Holbrook; and a number of nieces and nephews who loved and had the deepest respect for Mike, remembering him as the fun uncle.
Please be mindful of the request to refrain from any photos of Mike during this time. The family would like Mike to be remembered as he was in life.
Mary and Francesca would like to give special thanks to Joann, Mary's sisters, and their countless friends and family for the love and support you have poured into them through this most difficult time in their lives. "WE THANK YOU!"
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