Mike was born in Terre Haute IN to Muriel Dolores and Roy Opie Tawney, but they soon moved and he grew up on the sunny beaches of California. In 1969, a little town in Waco with bright lights of green and gold brought him to Baylor University where the rest of his life began. Mike served in the Baylor ROTC throughout his entire collegiate career, followed by three distinguished years serving in the United States Air Force. While at Baylor, he met the love of his life, Mary, and the rest was written in the stars. After marrying in 1974, they had two children, Lauren Elizabeth Tawney and Stephen Eugene Tawney. He also leaves behind a beloved brother, also named Stephen Tawney, and his wonderful wife Diane. A career driven and focused man, he spent many years at McLelland Engineers, followed by BFI and eventually Loomis Armored from which he retired in 2005.
Aside from being very devoted to his employees and career, he was the most loving and thoughtful husband and daddy that anyone could hope for. Our mother was the love of his life, and we children were a close second. (Actually, his dog Jack may have come first.) He was there for every one of Stephen’s football games and Lauren’s violin concerts. It didn’t matter if it was a state championship game, or just scratching out sounds on Lauren’s beloved instrument. Despite this devotion, these were not his biggest passion. All who knew him knows that would be Katy Football! As a matter of fact, his hospice visit from Coach Joseph was the highlight of his week. He fought very hard to just see one more game.
Family will receive visitors Thursday, August 23 from 6pm – 8pm at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home 13001 Katy Fwy 77079.
The memorial service and reception will be held on Friday, August 24 at Tallowood Baptist Church at 11 am. 555 Tallowood Road 77024
