Raised on the family homestead that dates back to 1887, Mike had a passion for the cowboy way of life. He roped cattle and rode roughstock pursing a love of rodeo in his youth.
Mike spent later years helping run the weekly Saturday night practice at the Aiken Roping Arena. Afterwards, he loved dancing and spinning around a hardwood floor.
Flanked much of the time by a canine companion, Mike enjoyed entertaining his family and friends. He was always eager to join in fellowship and revelry.
Mr. Aiken is survived by his sons, Mark Aiken, Coty Aiken and his wife, Katie; grandchildren, Kaydence Grace and Gunner Lathon, all of Tarkington; his twin brother, Max Aiken, and other brother, Gary Aiken, both of Nacogdoches.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Murline Garrett Aiken-Dudley, and his father R.L. “Pete” Aiken.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fairview Cemetery Association, or donate to the Shelah Aiken Memorial Youth Ag Fund for scholarships at Stephen F. Austin State University.