Mike Pagel

Michael Lynn Pagel, "Mike", born January 3, 1956, passed from this life on December 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, humor, love, and unforgettable stories.
From an early age, Mike was the very definition of a hard-working man. As soon as he was old enough to hold a job, he did, and he never stopped. His work ethic was one of his most defining traits, something he lived by and passed on to his children through example. A skilled and respected mechanic, Mike spent many years working at Ben's Auto Clinic, Mike's Auto Clinic, and as a fleet mechanic for Wonder Bread and Vermeer. His knowledge and ability around vehicles were widely recognized, and he was always admired for his willingness to help others.
It was in his most recent role, however, where his heart truly found its home. Working as a Fleet Mechanic, and eventually Fleet Manager, at SSM Health brought Mike immense pride and fulfillment. Keeping ambulances on the road was meaningful work to him. He loved diagnosing problems others deemed impossible and had a rare gift for fixing what wasn't working and making it like new. Whether it was skill, determination, or a bit of magic, Mike had a knack for solving problems. His generosity, humor, and friendly personality made him instantly likeable. He never met a stranger, and conversations with him often turned into long, story-filled visits before anyone realized how much time had passed.
If it had wheels and went fast, Mike was all in. A lifelong lover of racing, he enjoyed anything from NASCAR and NHRA Drag Racing to Street Outlaws, boat racing, motorcycles, and dirt bikes. His dirt track racing days were especially memorable. Weekends often meant racing at the State Fair Speedway in Oklahoma City on Friday nights, then heading to Lawton or Ada on Saturdays, only to do it all again the following weekend. His signature tardiness became legendary, often arriving just minutes before race time, smiling as if it were all part of the plan. Those racing years were full of adventure, including one particularly long and expensive night when the race car motor blew in Lawton-followed by the motor in the truck pulling it. Though frustrating at the time, it became one of many stories retold with laughter.
Mike also enjoyed his quieter moments, whether watching racing on television, enjoying shows like Tulsa King and Yellowstone, or reminiscing about watching WWE in his younger years. A 1974 graduate of Moore High School, Mike shared a unique story with his classmates: a tornado moved through town and cancelled their graduation ceremony. It wasn't until their 50-year reunion that he finally got to walk across the stage.
On October 3, 2025, Mike celebrated 50 years of marriage with the love of his life, Cindy. Their bond was deep and unmistakable to anyone who knew them. Cindy was his person, his happy place, and together they shared a life filled with laughter, stories, and simple joys. Many of those moments were spent in the kitchen, whether Mike was making his famous "Papa's Pizza" for the grandkids or experimenting with a new recipe. They also loved going out to eat, because Mike truly loved food. Some of their favorite spots included Jimmy's Egg, Interurban, Soda Pops, Pickles, Chili's, and Hideaway Pizza. Sometimes those meals inspired new dishes to try at home, but more often, it was simply quality time they cherished, sharing a meal and each other's company. Their love only grew stronger with time.
Becoming a Papa expanded Mike's heart in ways he never imagined. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren, Lane, Maci, and Trey, and rarely missed a ball game, often attending multiple games in a single weekend, and sometimes even in one day. He was the quintessential baseball Papa, faithfully posted in his lawn chair wearing the current team cap, unwilling to miss a single play no matter the distance traveled. He was also never shy about assisting the umpires when he felt the need, once earning himself an escort out of a 12U baseball game for expressing his disagreement. Undeterred, he proudly watched from the parking lot, cheering his grandchild on. Sleepovers were his greatest joy, always filled with fun plans and special outings, especially trips to Andy Alligators, affectionately known as the "kid casino," where laughter, chaos, and memories were guaranteed.
Family meant everything to Mike. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and an exceptional Papa. He taught his children the value of perseverance, showing them what it meant to keep going even when things were difficult. Nothing was insurmountable to him. He lived with kindness, generosity, and an open heart, making him the kind of friend people felt lucky to have.
And while Mike was known for many things, few could rival his legendary love of pillows. What began as a simple comfort evolved into a charming and amusing quirk. If a pillow was advertised on TV or online, it was only a matter of days before it arrived at his front door. In Mike's mind, there was always room for one more. Better to have them and not need them than need them and not have them, and besides, there were just so many options. Truly, one could never have too many pillows.
Michael Lynn Pagel was one of a kind. His humor, stories, work ethic, and heart left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Mike is survived by his wife, Cynthia Pagel; his daughter, Mika Menser, and her husband, Robert Menser; his son, Matt Pagel, and his wife, Amber Pagel; and his beloved grandchildren, Trey Menser, Lane Pagel, and Maci Pagel. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Pagel and his wife, Sharon Pagel, and Bob Pagel and his wife, Michelle Pagel, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marge and Ben Pagel.