With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mike Contreras, Sr. of Waco, Texas, on March 15, 2024, at the age of 90. Mike passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at Baylor Scott and White Hillcrest Hospital. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 19 at 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellmead, Texas, followed by interment at Waco Memorial Park. A visitation will be held on March 18, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with a Rosary recited at 7:00 pm at Wilkirson Hatch Bailey Funeral Home, located at 6101 Bosque Blvd.
Born on May 8, 1933, in Asa, Texas, to Agapito and Bonifacia Contreras, Mike was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who spent his youth and much of his adult life in Waco, where he became a cornerstone of his community and family.
At 20, Mike married his lifelong companion, Mary Gomez, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey of love and partnership that lasted 71 years. Together, they raised five children: Mike Jr. Contreras (deceased), Melinda Blanco, Tommy Contreras, Diana Cofer, and Maria Marquez, instilling in them the values of hard work, compassion, and the importance of family. Their love and legacy continued to flourish as he became a PaPa with the blessing of seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to Mike's life.
Mike dedicated his professional career to working as a machinist at OK Machine and Tool and in maintenance at McLennan Community College and retired from a supervisor maintenance role at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), where his contributions were invaluable. His work ethic and dedication were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Beyond his work, Mike was passionate about his faith, the great outdoors, taking particular joy in working on lawn mowers, cars, tending to his yard, and watching old westerns. His greatest joy, however, came from the time spent with his family. Known for his quick wit and love for a good joke, Mike was the life of any gathering, always ready to make others smile.
He was preceded in death by his son, Mike Jr.; his parents, Agapito and Bonifacia Contreras; his sisters, Faye Brown and Mary Hixson; and his brothers, Jesse Contreras and Benny Contreras.
Mike is survived by his wife, Mary Contreras; daughter, Melinda Blanco and husband Ralph of Riesel, Texas; son, Tommy Contreras and wife Dee of Waco, Texas; daughter, Diana Cofer and husband John of Bellmead, Texas; daughter, Maria Marquez and husband Roland of Hewitt, Texas; daughter-in-law, Tina Contreras, widow of Mike Contreras, Jr.; his seven grandchildren; and his seven great-grandchildren.
Serving as pallbearers will be John Blanco, Mark Blanco, Kanon Blanco, Brett Contreras, Wink Pickens, and Joseph Rosas. Honorary pallbearers, Christian Cofer and Matthew Contreras.
Mike's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to his family will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His story is a testament to a life filled with purpose, joy, and the power of family bonds. He will be deeply missed.
The family invites you to leave a message or memory on Mike’s “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com
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