Michael Van Townsend

Michael Van Townsend, born November 13, 1940 died February 14, 2013, surrounded by family. Born in San Antonio, Mike lived in various areas of South Texas before graduating from Rockport High School in 1958, where he was captain of the football team and class president. Mike attended the University of Texas and there developed his lifelong passion for all things Longhorn. After college he started his career in commercial insurance where he would stay for his entire 50 year career. Mike was an expert gardener and grill chef extraordinaire. Later in life his passions centered on his grandchildren, who brought him great joy. Mike was a devoted husband to Diana, and a loving father and grandfather “Papaw”. He loved attending all the various sporting events of his grandkids and would end every phone conversation with “kiss the kids for me.” “Papaw” will be missed. Michael was the love of Diana's life and they would have celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary on March 2nd. They had a wonderful and fulfilling life together with their blended family and nine grandchildren. Life as they experienced it changed dramatically when Michael became ill two years ago. Life became centered on keeping him well and dealing with his illness. It was often said "he had nine lives". Through it all he was a strong and fiercely independent man, handling his illness with grace and dignity. He put on a brave face for those around him and continued in his role as patriarch of the family. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine Reynolds and Marvin Townsend; his sister Patti Bunch; and his beloved Boston Terrier “Dallas.” Mike is survived by his wife Diana; daughter Meredith and son-in-law Charlie; son Michael and daughter-in-law Laura; step-daughter Nicole and son-in-law Bill; step-daughter Kelly; sister Janet and brother-in-law Henry; sisters Bonnie and Debra; grandchildren Ella, Alden, Mary Louise, Kolbe, Jackson, Hayden, Tyler, Bailey, and Riley; nieces Kim, Debbie, Cindy, Maggie; and friend and former spouse Mary. A Memorial Service Celebrating Michael’s life will be held Monday evening at 7:00 PM the 18th of February 2013 in the Chapel of Dettling Funeral Home. A reception will follow in the Grand Room. If a boy is lucky, he’s born with a built-in superhero in the form of his father. In that respect, I was extraordinarily lucky. I was blessed with a father who was always around, made every game, coached my teams, and did all the things real-life superheroes do. Sadly, my boyhood superhero passed away today. The superheroic debts I incurred to him can only be repaid by doing the same for my kids. If, when I pass, my children hold me in as high regard as I did my own father, then my work will have been well done. Rest in peace, Dad (1940-2013)

Michael Van Townsend

November 13, 1940 - February 14, 2013