Michael James Maples

Mike Maples, Sr, 82, passed away on January 9, 2025, in Austin, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. A pioneering technology executive who helped shape the modern computing industry, Mike was known for his exceptional leadership abilities and genuine care for others, leaving an indelible mark on both the business world and the lives he touched.

Born August 25, 1942, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Mike graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Electrical Engineering in early 1965 and an MBA from Oklahoma City University in 1969. After serving his country in Vietnam (1965-1966), he began a remarkable career at IBM that spanned over two decades. In 1988, he joined Microsoft at the invitation of Bill Gates, where he served as head of products until his retirement in 1995. His leadership played a crucial role at a pivotal time in Microsoft's emergence as a global technology leader. Following his corporate career, Mike embraced life as a rancher in Cypress Mill, Texas, where he continued to mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Mike's greatest joy was his family and the relationships he built throughout his life. His marriage to Carolyn in 1964 marked the beginning of a beautiful 60 years together. A devoted father to sons Mike and Benton, he took special pleasure in family gatherings and sharing his passions for technology and the outdoors. Those who knew Mike best will remember his infectious enthusiasm for innovation, his patient mentorship, and his unique ability to make everyone feel valued and heard.

He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn; sons Mike Maples Jr. and his wife Julie Allegro Maples, Benton Maples and his wife Julie Hooks Maples; eight grandchildren Sydney Maples Trinidad and her husband Jason Trinidad, Sloane Maples, Spencer Maples, Josie Maples, Ava Maples, Hadley Maples, Ajax Constantin, and Alexander Constantin; one great-granddaughter, Mila Trinidad; and a large extended family who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Denise and Fred Maples, and his brother Pat Maples.

To continue Mike's legacy of fostering innovation and excellence in engineering education, the family requests that memorial gifts be made in support of the Mike Maples Memorial Fund at the University of Oklahoma. Checks made payable to the “OU Foundation” can be mailed to:

The University of Oklahoma Foundation

P.O. Box 258856

Oklahoma City, OK 73125-8856

Please note “Mike Maples Memorial Fund” in the note section of your check or online -https://give.oufoundation.org/MaplesMemorial