Michael Paul "Mike" Miklas Jr.

1942 - 2025

MICHAEL PAUL "MIKE" MIKLAS, JR.
December 28, 1942 - November 23, 2025
Michael Paul "Mike" Miklas, Jr., 82, of Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. Known for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to his family, Mike lived a life filled with purpose, laughter, and love. His presence-large in body, heart and spirit-left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
Born on December 28, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri, Mike was the beloved son of Michael P. Miklas, Sr. and Helen Miklas. He was the youngest of four siblings including Anita Sue Carter, Fred Baccus, and Ann Bryant, all of whom preceded him in death. From his earliest days, Mike carried an innate curiosity about the world around him-a curiosity that would guide both his education and his career.
A graduate of Roosevelt High School in St. Louis, Mike continued his education at Southeast Missouri State University, earning his bachelor's degree in Geography and Geology. He later completed a master's degree in Geography from Southeast Michigan State University and then pursued doctoral work at Michigan State University. His academic achievement reflected his lifelong commitment to exploring how science and technology shape human progress.
On August 21, 1965, Mike married the love of his life, Mary Ann Bruce, in St. Louis, Missouri. Their marriage was one of enduring love, mutual respect, and constant adventure. Together, they built a family filled with laughter and lasting memories.
Mike's professional journey was both impressive and varied. He was a professor in Geography at Wayne State University in Detroit, at Texas A&M in Kingsville, and later at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio. The heart of his career, however, was at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, where he served as a senior research scientist in the nuclear research division. There, Mike contributed to projects contracted by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including groundbreaking protocol work on waste management at Yucca Mountain in Nevada.
In the 1980s, his entrepreneurial instincts led him to open two successful computer stores-San Antonio Discount Computer Supply-embracing the rise of home computing with the same enthusiasm and curiosity that characterized his scientific work.
Outside of his career, Mike's passions enlivened every facet of his life. A lover of sports, he followed the Spurs and the Dallas Cowboys with true dedication, spent hours golfing, and found joy in bowling-often expanding his collection of unique bowling balls. He delighted in humor, especially in his fondness for *The Simpsons*, *Seinfield*, and *Curb Your Enthusiasm* and in sharing moments of laughter with family and friends. He and Mary Ann shared a deep love for travel, especially their cherished cruises together, where they found both relaxation and adventure.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann; his daughters Jenny Dethero (David Dethero), Dr. Carrie Lindsey (Dr. Mark Lindsey), Katie Cavender (Billy Cavender), his grandchildren Alex, Marynell, Emily, Cameron, Max, Cooper and great granddaughter Kalia, numerous nieces and nephews and many friends and family members who will miss his generous spirit and contagious humor. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael P. Miklas, III.
Mike's family will forever be thankful to his incredible caregivers, Jay, Ruben, and Ruben James (RJ) for their kindness, patience and loving care.
A funeral service to celebrate Mike's life will be held at Porter Loring North on December 20th at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to join in remembering a life well lived and a man deeply loved.
You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com