Michael Brent Walton

Michael Brent Walton was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, a cherished son, brother, cousin, and a loyal friend to many. He left us far too soon on May 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that touched everyone who knew him. Michael was born on January 7, 1977, in Houston, Texas, to John and Marlene Walton. From an early age, he was known for his kind heart, sharp mind, love of sports, and unwavering devotion to the people in his life. He graduated from Taylor High School in Katy, Texas, class of 1995, where he enjoyed playing football and soccer - a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of Texas Tech University, class of 1999, and remained a passionate fan of the Red Raiders throughout his life. Michael later earned a master's degree in accounting from Southwest Texas State University and built a career marked by dedication, hard work, and integrity. Over the years, Michael served in internal audit and inventory control roles at several well-regarded companies, including Walmart Inc., Safeway Inc., and most recently, Tailored Brands Inc. In July 2020, he earned the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation from The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), a prestigious global credential recognizing expertise in internal auditing. Throughout his career, Michael was known not only for his professional excellence but also for his collaborative spirit, mentorship, and unwavering reliability-qualities that deeply impacted and inspired those who worked with him. After six years of dating, Michael married the love of his life, Tracy, on June 28, 2003. Their marriage was a true partnership - full of laughter, mutual respect, and deep affection. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and unwavering support for one another. Whether cheering from the sidelines at their children's events, enjoying hill country getaways, or simply spending quiet evenings together, Michael and Tracy approached every moment with love and intention. Their relationship was a testament to the strength that comes from growing together through life's joys and challenges. Michael found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved listening to music, spending time outdoors, and relaxing on the back porch while cooking up the tastiest meals as the family pitmaster. These passions led him to many memorable experiences, such as competing in the Texas Independence Relay in 2016 and 2017 and the Capital to Coast Relay in the fall of 2017. His love of music extended to his role as a supportive and enthusiastic dad-he attended numerous concerts with his daughters, sharing in their excitement and encouraging their musical interests. Michael also brought his signature enthusiasm to the kitchen, where his talent and creativity shone through in events like the Three Rivers Salsa competition, where he proudly put his skills to the test. His lifelong love of soccer continued well beyond his school years-he played passionately with his over 30 co-ed team, the Mad Penguins, where he formed lasting friendships and found joy in the camaraderie and competition of the game. He especially cherished time with his children - coaching Emmeline's soccer teams, cheering the girls on with color guard, or sharing in Everett's scouting adventures. He was always hands-on and involved with the children. One of his greatest joys was cooking for his family, and he found special fulfillment in nurturing Elinor's interest for the culinary arts-offering guidance and encouraging her creativity in the kitchen. His devotion to his family was the heart of who he was. He is survived by his beloved wife, Tracy, and their three children, Emmeline, Elinor, and Everett. He also leaves behind his parents, John and Marlene Walton, and his sister, Kathleen. In addition to his immediate family, Michael is survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins from Texas, Ohio, and Virginia, all of whom held a special place in his heart. There was nothing that brought Michael more joy than being "Dad" to Emmeline, Elinor, and Everett. Many wonderful milestones will be missed. It is because of this that we ask, in lieu of flowers, family and friends consider donating to a fund that will be placed in Trust to support them after they graduate high school and begin their journey into adulthood. Michael's life will be celebrated on Friday, May 23, 2025, Ten-Thirty in the Morning, at Living Word Lutheran Church, located at 3700 S. Mason Road, Katy, Texas 77450.