Glenn Michael "Mike" Hightower

June 7, 1948 - April 19, 2009

Glenn Michael "Mike" Hightower, 60, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2009, at his residence in Bryan after a lengthy illness.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Born in Bryan, Mike served as the Deputy Director of the Texas A&M Sea Grant Program until he retired in 1999.

Prior to that he once served as the Assistant Texas Land Commissioner when he was with the Texas General Land Office in Austin.

He received a Bachelor Degree of Science in 1971 from Texas A&M University, and received his Master of Science in 1973. He had twenty-seven years of experience involving marine and estuarine research, regulatory affairs, environmental issues, land management and natural resource policy with major emphasis on the coastal areas.

Mike loved the marine environment and considered his work to be one of his life's purposes. He expanded that love recreationally to scuba diving and snorkeling.

Mike was a great animal lover and will not only be missed by his family and friends but his furry friends too.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Hightower.

Survivors include his wife, Melissa Hightower, of Bryan; father, Erskine Hightower II; brother and sister-in-law, Erskine Hightower III and wife, Diana; niece, Kimberly Garnett and her children Claire and Will; niece, Leah Hightower; uncle, Clayburn Sample Hightower; and numerous cousins.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be sent to the Brazos Animal Shelter, 2207 Finfeather Rd., Bryan, TX, 77801.

Please leave condolences at www.callawayjones.com