Michael James Cracraft

Michael James Cracraft, 81, passed away on October 2, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. Mike was a longtime resident of Houston, Texas, where he built a life filled with love, family and cherished memories.

Mike was born on February 11, 1945, in Wichita, Kansas to Lester Cracraft and Velma Maxine Richardson.

Mike earned a BA with Honors in 1967 at UT Austin and a Master of Arts in 1969, achievements that reflected a disciplined mind and a lifelong devotion to learning. Those who knew him best remember not only what he studied, but how readily he shared what he knew—thoughtful, observant, and quietly confident in conversation. He fulfilled his career as a computer programmer for KBR, Inc. (formerly known as Kellogg Brown & Root).

The proudest chapter of Mike’s life was his marriage to Liliana Rodriguez and the family life they built together. He was a lifetime member of the Houston Cactus and Succulents Society, and his work with KBR took him around the world—experiences that suited his curiosity and widened the already remarkable breadth of his knowledge.

Mike’s interests were many and well-loved: biking, music, food and wine, cooking, reading, and caring for his succulents. He delighted in learning other languages, and he carried into daily life an unmistakable sharpness of mind. He loved classical music, and reading his extensive collection of art history, classical composers and botanical books. A devoted fan of The Three Stooges, Mike was known for a dry sense of humor, quick wit, and an uncanny ability to offer exactly the right words at exactly the right time.

Mike is survived by his wife, Liliana Rodriguez; stepson, Carlos Ulloa; grandchildren, Sandra, Carlos, and Sofia Ulloa; and great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Olivia, Adeline Yost and Crawford, Cassandra Ulloa; brother, Joel Cracraft.

Visitation will be held at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 4525 Bissonnet St, Bellaire, Texas 77401, on October 7, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Rosary and Vigil Service will be held there on October 7, 2026, at 6:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, 6800 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77025, US, on October 8, 2026, at 10:00 am. The Rite of Committal will follow at Historic Hollywood Cemetery, 3506 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009, US, on October 8, 2026, at 11:30 am.

Mike wished to be remembered as an amazing husband and a world of knowledge—funny, witty, and always knowing the perfect thing to say.