Michael James Buchanan

Michael James “Mike” Buchanan, a lifelong resident of Austin, Texas, passed away on Sunday, September 6th after a years-long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was born on December 28, 1971, to Jim and Mercy Buchanan.

Mike graduated from Westwood High School in Round Rock, Texas in 1990. He went on to serve six years in the Texas Army National Guard and later built a long career with the United States Postal Service, Retiring after more than 25 years of service.

Mike enjoyed being out and about, especially spending time with his friends and taking in Austin’s nightlife. He loved live music, particularly the bands and music of the 1980s and 1990s. During the summer months he was happiest on the water, riding his jet ski or spending the day on a boat at Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis, which was one of his favorite summer destinations and the setting for many good times with friends.

Mike also had a lifelong interest in martial arts and mixed martial arts. Though some friends knew him by the nickname “Peanut”, the name may have been a little misleading: as a young man, Mike spent time working as a bouncer at a local nightclub.

Mike loved good food and liked it on the spicy side. He enjoyed cooking for family and friends and was equally happy sitting down to a fine meal. Steak and lobster were particular favorites, preferably accompanied by a cold adult beverage. Mike was generous nature and never minded picking up the check when he was out with friends.

A proud Texan and devoted sports fan, Mike was a lifelong supporter of the University of Texas Longhorns and the Dallas Cowboys. Following his teams was a constant source of enjoyment throughout his life.

Mike never married and had no children. He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Buchanan; his stepfather, Buell Townsend; and his stepbrother, Chris Townsend. He is survived by his mother, Mercy Townsend; his brother, Ernie Hinojosa, and Ernie’s wife, Jana Hinojosa; his aunts, Rose Aguilar and Bernice Saldana, and Bernice’s husband, Javier; and his cousins, Eric De la Garza, Leah Williams, and Gregory Aguilar.

A Funeral Service will be held at Providence Funeral Home, 807 Carlos Parker Blvd. NW., Taylor, Texas 76574, on September 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Committal Service will be held at Hutto City Cemetery, 105 Co Rd 135, Hutto, TX 78634, on September 16, 2026, at 11:15 am.