Milan Frederick Kardatzke

Mike attended Gulf Coast Bible College from the fall of 1957 to 1959 before graduating from the Houston Police Academy in 1961. That same year, he began what would become a distinguished 32-year career with the Houston Police Department. From 1961 until his retirement m 1993, he faithfully served his community with strength and integrity. For 19 of those years, he served as, a homicide detective - a role that required wisdom, composure, and unwavering dedication to justice. His career reflected his deep sense of duty and steadfast commitment to protecting others.

Mike and his beloved wife, Brenda, were longtime members of Southside Church of Christ, where their faith remained an important foundation throughout their marriage and family life. Beyond his badge, Mike found joy in the simple things. He loved to flounder when the tide and weather were just right, often heading to Bolivar and walking the passageway. He once said his best Thanksgiving meal ever was a fried flounder fillet - a memory that perfectly captures the kind of man he was .

He loved the game Mexican Train and never passed up the chance to sit at the table. In their Iater years together, he and Brenda spent countless nights staying up late, playing Rummikub and trying to beat one another. Their marriage was filled with personality, partnership, and years of shared memories. After her passing in September 2024, he felt her absence every day and missed her deeply. We trust they are reunited in the presence of the Lord.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda; his son, Michael Scott "Scotty"; his parents, Eula and Forrest Kardatzke; and his siblings Gwendolyn, Kathleen, Kenneth, Ellen, Richard, Lauren, and his twin brother Miles. He leaves behind his sister Lois; his sons Mark, Tim, and Keith Kardatzke; his stepsons Kyle and Blane Johnson; his daughter-in-law Lisa; and his grandchildren Ryan and Erwin Kardatzke, Christian Johnson, and Haley Johnson, along with extended family and friends who will forever hold his memory close.

A visitation will be held at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, located at 4525 Bissonnet St, Bellaire, Texas, 77401, on February 25, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

The funeral service will follow at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Burial will take place at Wellborn Cemetery, 6783 Victoria Ave, College Station, Texas, 77845, on February 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.