Michael "Mike" H. Young

Mike was born on the 15th of November 1958, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Thomas and Sherry Young. He moved to Houston during middle school and later graduated from Robert E. Lee High School. He went on to attend the University of Houston, where he became a lifelong and proud Cougar fan. For many seasons, he could be found volunteering at the Cougar BBQ tailgates before football games, happily doing what he did best.

Mike met the love of his life, Becky, at a University of Houston football game. They began dating in 1979, and the rest was history. Married in May 1984, they built a life full of love and laughter. They welcomed two beautiful daughters, Kelly and Michelle, in 1989 and 1992. Mike’s greatest pride and joy was his family—he was a devoted husband and a deeply loving hands‑on father who never missed a chance to be present and supportive. Mike and Becky shared 42 wonderful years of marriage together that revolved around love, family, and a lot of laughter.

One of Mike’s many love languages was food—he was an expert pitmaster and loved to experiment with new seasonings and ingredients, whether in the kitchen or at the grill. He also took great pride in keeping the yard immaculate, especially atop his souped-up riding lawnmower. Mike was known for his quick wit, infectious humor, and warm, gregarious nature. He had an easy way of making people laugh and feel at home, and wherever he went, people naturally gravitated toward him. He was deeply loved by all who knew him.

Mike spent his early working years with Kroger, where he worked for ten years. Following the passing of his mother in 1987, he took over management of the Sherry Young Mad Hatter Talent Agency, a role that became a true passion for him. After closing the agency in 2004, Mike chose what would become one of his most meaningful roles—becoming a full-time stay-at-home dad—affectionately and jokingly calling himself a “Dad-Mom”. He dedicated himself to raising his daughters and could always be found faithfully carting them to soccer, softball, and volleyball games, constantly present and cheering them on.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Becky Combs Young; his daughters, Kelly Young and Michelle Young; his faithful dog, Blue; his three cats, Captain Jack Sparrow, Mr. Gibbs, and Calypso; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him profoundly.

A public celebration of Mike’s life will be held from 2 o’clock in the afternoon until 5 o’clock in the evening on Saturday, the 9th of May in the Hearth Room at The Houstonian Hotel, 111 North Post Oak Lane in Houston. Kindly note that valet parking will be provided at The Houstonian Hotel and is complimentary.

As many loved ones knew, Mike was never a fancy dresser—comfort always came first, usually in one of his trusty button-down fishing shirts. Guests are encouraged to dress casually, and feel free to rep your Cougar red (Mike would definitely approve).

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions in Michael’s memory be directed to either Toys for Tots or the Gary Sinise Foundation (in support of wounded veterans) by accessing the link below under the ‘Donations’ section, or to a charity of your choice.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with Mike’s family by selecting the ‘Add a Memory’ icon in the ‘Show your support’ section below.