Michael Fred Cherry (“Mike”), 68, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2021 in Houston, Texas. He was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Houston, Texas on May 10, 1953 to Paul Lyle Cherry & Marie Eva Cherry.  Michael is survived by his son Michael Paul Cherry, stepdaughter Christine Nicole Henry, her husband Sean Steven Henry, grandson Christopher Sean Henry, and stepson Jason Patrick Van Hoorne.  He also raised stepson Jesse Lee Van Hoorne (deceased). Mike is also survived by his former spouse and friend of 35 years, Patricia Lyn Cherry. His children fondly remember his activities, which included: coaching & umpiring their little league baseball teams, teaching them fishing and crabbing, taking them to Astros games, providing special dream vacations such as trips to Disney World at the Grand Floridian. He also helped provide a fantasy wedding for Christine & Sean in Italy. He went on to provide support for private preschool education and swimming lessons for his grandson. He worked for the Port of Houston as a Longshoreman for ILA 1351 for most of his life. He enjoyed spending time with family, especially with his only grandson Christopher. Past hobbies included bowling (a perfect game), and teaching and competing in country western dancing. He enjoyed saltwater fishing, boating, watching NCIS, catching up on Houston sports, going out to eat, and talking with friends and family. He also had a great love of dogs.  Some of his beloved pets in his life were Emilee, Chauncey, McKenzie, Honey, Wesley, Buddy and Zeus.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 20, 2021 at 11AM at Clear Lake United Methodist Church at 16335 El Camino Real, Houston, TX 77062. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mike Cherry’s name may do so to Coastal Conservation Association at 6919 Portwest, Suite 100 Houston, Texas 77024, joincca.org or to Camo Animal Rescue at camorescue.com

In the words of Mike’s hero, John Wayne, “I have tried to live my life so that my family would love me and my friends respect me. The others can do whatever they please.”