Michael R. "Mikey" Katon

Michael Ray Katon, a/k/a Mikey and Kato, born March 4, 1958 Kansas City, Missouri, passed away June 21,2016 in West Plains, Missouri. Michael is survived by his mother, LaVonna Katon; sister, Diana Tacy; and 4 nieces, Stephanie Tacy, Amy Summers (Curtis), Shelby Dahmer (Reed Liberty) and Megan Dahmer. He was also “Great” Uncle to Katie Heard, Madyson Beard, JD Summers and Blaine, Tori and Aaidyn Dahmer. And, Mike Bagby, brother-in-law. Michael had numerous lifetime friends from grade and high school. Any many, many “Darlins” that have also remained friends. Michael was preceded in death by his sister, Jamie Dahmer; John Lamar, step-father, Jimmy, Jr. Katon,half-brother, James R. Katon,father and his long time mentor,Noel “Tubby” Lloyd. The Katon Children were fortunate enough to grow up with their mother and grandparents on the Westside and in Hyde Park. Michael was preceded in death by Grandpa Doc, Charles McBrayer, Grandma, LuElla “Lula” McBrayer. And Grandpa Tippy, Herman Chitwood. Michael was an avid sports fan and learned to read by reading the sports pages of the Kansas City Star. He played Junior Varsity and Varsity Football at his alma mater Southwest High School. He was a member of the Lettermen’s Club at Southwest High School. He received an Honorable Mention in the Kansas City Star, which was quite an accomplishment since he was one of the smallest guards in their league. He won the Coach Robinson’s Memorial Trophy his senior year. During his years at Southwest he made numerous lifelong friends. All of which are characters in their own ways. And was preceded in death by his partner in crime, Jeff “Pete” Peterson. During his early years Michael played 3&2 Baseball and the last year he played for Pepsi when they won the 3&2 City Championship. He will be greatly missed by his “click” at George B. Longan Elementary School. Mike graduated from Southwest High School in 1976 and he continued with some college. His chosen career was a construction laborer and a member of the unions. Later in life he worked at A&N Hardware, North Kansas City, MO. Mikey was a “hoot” and loved by many people. He was partner in a tavern at 18th and Broadway, Michael Joe’s, where he was affectionately known as “Kato”. And the name stayed with him for many years. Michael was always a class clown which carried over into the family. His nieces bought him numerous toys and gag gifts on the holidays. They knew he enjoyed and cherished every one of them. He could be loud and gregarious at times scaring his great nieces and nephews. He was a constant tease to everyone. He will be so missed by his family. And will always remain with us in our hearts and memories.