Michael W Talus

Mike was born on May 16, 1944 to Eino and Margrette Talus. He was born in Virginia, Minnesota, where he developed a quiet independence and appreciation for hard work that later led him to build his adult life and career in Texas. He attended Aurora–Hoyt Lake High School and the University of Minnesota before beginning a long, dedicated career with IBM.

Mike was an accomplished high school athlete, known as the best swimmer and mile runner in his class. His competitive edge was honed through countless daily races swimming across the lake with his brother. He was also mechanically inclined, and carried on that family tradition by working in an outboard motor repair shop as a teenager. Mike was the one everyone called first when something needed fixing.

Mike started at IBM in the mailroom and, through diligence and commitment, advanced to roles including Administrative Manager and Project Supervisor. He devoted 44 years to the company and took pride in his work and in the people he worked alongside.

Above all, Mike was a devoted husband to his wife, Mary Ellen, and a father and grandfather who cared deeply for his children and grandchildren and followed their lives with pride. His friendly personality and wit will be remembered as well as his delicious barbecue.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ellen Talus; his children, Carrie (Matt Heavner) Talus, Peter (Sara) Talus, Laura (Philip) Nickles, and Jennifer (Quentin) Ray; 13 grandchildren; his brother, Roy Talus; and his sister, Margrette (Peter) Crescenzo, nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 30 at Brookside Funeral Home–Cypress Creek, 9149 Highway 6 North, Houston, Texas, followed by a service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the same location. Interment will follow at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, Texas.

Pallbearers are Matt Heavner, Philip Nickles, Jesse Olvera, Nicholas Ray, Quentin Ray, and Peter Talus.