Michael Harlan Neace

1946 - 2017

Michael Harlan Neace FORT WORTH--Mike Neace departed this life on Monday, Aug. 14, 2017, with his wife by his side. His family and friends are devastated to lose him, but they are thankful he is now at peace. FUNERAL: 2 p.m. Thursday at Thompson's Harveson & Cole. Burial: Laurel Land Memorial Park. Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday. Michael Harlan Neace was born Jan. 25, 1946, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was the second son of John and Margaret Neace. In his youth, he enjoyed playing sports and getting into trouble. He was a proud graduate of North Side High School's class of 1964-1965, a group that is still very close today and meets regularly. Mike began a 46-year career for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, starting at age 12. He served various roles within the circulation department and was known by as peers as one of the "old guys," not in age, but in roots and values. Mike made many lifelong friendships at the paper and was a beloved and valued employee. One co-worker remarked that we mourn the ones that make us laugh the most; Mike was definitely one of those! Mike and Phyllis Massey Neace met in high school and were married for 37 years. They had two children, Dina Kay and Michael. As a family, they enjoyed youth sports and spending weekends by the pool. Mike and Phyllis loved trips to Vegas and staying at the Golden Nugget. Phyllis passed away in 2001 after a brave battle with cancer. Mike began filling his time with a host of friends, a new Harley Davidson and 1932 Ford Hi-boy roadster. He enjoyed many weekends out on "rides" or going to car shows with his buddies. In 2014, Mike married Diane Black Budaus. Mike would say, "We've known each other since we were 3 years old, so we didn't rush into anything." Over the last 2 1/2 years, they lived life to the fullest; remodeling their home and enjoying time with friends and family. SURVIVORS: His wife, Diane; daughter, Dina Simpson and her husband, Joel; son, Michael Neace and his wife, Kelly; grandchildren, Brandon, Reed, Ashley and Rachel; brother, Alan Neace, his wife, Paula; nieces, Dena and Kelly; Diane's children, Marc Budaus and his wife, Jody, Matthew and his wife, Toni, Gabriel and his wife, Jen, Melissa; and 13 stepgrandkids. He is also survived by his loyal and beloved dogs, Harley and Lefty.