Walker

Michael (Mike) Walker passed away on Jan. 2, 2023 surrounded by his loving wife and two sons after a valiant battle against cancer. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mike was born on Jan. 21, 1944 to Eric and Gill O’Connor in Bulawayo, Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe. He went to University in South Africa studying law. After two years at law school he decided to change his career path and pursued an opportunity in ranch management in Zimbabwe. In 1968, Mike met Joanna Spiller at a friend’s house in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. They fell in love, were married on May 30, 1970, and were lifelong partners.

Based on his love of ranching, he decided to continue his education through an International Agriculture Program that provided education in Cattle and Pasture Management at Texas A&M. After obtaining his degree he returned to Zimbabwe to utilize his education and start a family. In the early 1980s, he returned to Texas to operate a cattle ranch in Warda, Texas and begin a new chapter in his life. He also had an exotic animal farm and managed Jansen Brothers, a company in La Grange that sold and serviced farm equipment and automobiles. Mike was also a passionate craftsman who could be found in his workshop making furniture, fixing equipment, or just tinkering. He was very proud to call La Grange his home for over 40 years.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of almost 53 years; two sons, Michael Sean and Scott and their wives Helen and Amanda, respectively; three grandchildren Lucas (14), Michael Logan (6) and Heidi Jessica (3); his brother and sister-in-law, Christopher and Aloma; and various friends and relatives around the world (too numerous to list).

He was predeceased by his mother, Gill and father, Eric.

Those who knew Mike know that it is impossible to summarize his amazing life in a few paragraphs. He faced every challenge in life with strength, integrity and courage and will be missed.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

A private cremation service will be attended by the family. There are no public events planned, as he did not wish to have services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to A.M.E.N., 1035 E. Eblin St., La Grange, Texas 78945, an organization that Mike’s wife, Joanna was a founding member.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.