Obituary of Michael Morales

Michael D. Morales, 83, passed away peacefully at his home during the early morning hours of Sunday, October 1, 2023. He laid his head on his own pillow, in the safety of his home and the Lord took him “Home” in the comfort of his sleep. We are grateful for this blessing.

Mike was born October 14, 1939, on Galveston Island, Texas. He was proud of his roots and often joked about how special it was to be a “BOI” (born on the Island). He is preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Maria Morales; his brothers, Ramon, Alphonse, Salvador; and his sister, Carmen. He is survived by his brother Johnny Morales.

Mike worked hard all his life and was a perfectionist at everything he did. Whether it was being a captain of the football team for Kirwin High School, an all-catholic boy’s school, or jumping out of planes in the Army, as part of the 82nd Airborne Infantry. Mike proudly served his country while being stationed in Germany. Mike was honored to be part of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 527, for more than 60 years. His work as a master electrician allowed him to travel to Libya, Venezuela, Jamaica, Hawaii, New York, Illinois, and many other places all over the United States where he helped build some of the world’s most important facilities. Mike clocked many work hours at our own Austin Bergstrom Airport. Mike never hesitated to travel to where the work was so he could provide for his family.

Mike is survived by his wife Juanita, “Janie”. Mike LOVED his family but there’s no family without Janie. She is the love of his life. He met Janie at a dance in Galveston, Texas, in 1961, and they married in June 1963. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on a beach in Galveston (of course) with their family and friends. The love they shared for each other was on display and is an inspiration for all. Throughout their careers, Mike and Janie lived in several cities across Texas. But for the last 18 years, they have called Austin, TX home, and made many lifelong friends through their love for music and dancing.

In addition to being a great husband to Janie, Mike was a wonderful Dad and Grandpa. His children include Michael Morales (Denise), Christopher Morales (Jeana) and Stephanie Morales (Martin). His grandchildren are Brandon Morales (Bella), Shelby Bech (Vincent), Pilar Morales (Lupe), and Tara Morales. His great grandchildren are Gabriel Morales, Leo Bech, and Esmae Morales. He was loved by them in more ways than can be counted. He was steadfast and strong, but he was always ready to joke and share a good laugh. It was always a comfort knowing Dad/Grandpa was there to help and guide us when needed. He was tough at times, but it was because he wanted the best for his “kids”. He set a high bar and challenged us all to reach it. We often joked about how Dad/Grandpa was so particular about everything (he called it “organized”). It was because he wanted it done right. You could always count on Mike to do it right. He set a great example for all of us, and we are better people because of him.

Those who knew Mike Morales knew he was a special person. He was smart and funny and knew a little bit about everything and a lot about a lot of things. He was a hard worker but also a smart worker. He loved God and his family and took great care of his family and now God will take care of him. He will be immensely missed by the many surviving nieces, nephews, family, and friends. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers the family respectfully request donations to www.stjude.org/tributes

Serving as Pallbearers are Daniel Herrera, Gilbert Vazquez, Bobby Corona, Lupe Lopez, Vincent Bech, Martin Mendoza, Brandon Morales, and Gabriel Morales. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Music will begin at 6:30 followed by Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Mission Funeral Home Serenity Chapel, 6204 S. 1st Street, Austin, Texas 78745.

Rosary will be live-streamed to allow those unable to attend to participate.  Follow link to Facebook Live Mission - South Side

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church, 126 W. Oltorf St. Austin, Texas 78704.

The reception will be held following Mass at DK Maria's Legendary Tex-Mex Restaurant, 1807 W. Slaughter Ln. Austin, Texas 78748.