Roll Call Tribute

Michael Roy Uresti 

August 6, 1945 - March 27, 2024 

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Roy Uresti, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who departed this world on March 27, 2024, at the age of 78. Michael was born on August 6, 1945, to the late Arthur and Alline Uresti, in a close-knit family that nurtured his values of love, compassion, and dedication to others, especially children.

Michael shared 50 years of marriage with his wife, Keena Marie Uresti. Their love story was a testament to commitment and partnership, through life's joys and challenges. Together, they built a legacy of love and family that will endure for generations to come.

Michael was a loving father to three children whom he adored beyond measure: Koleman Uresti (Staci), Kelty Ferguson (Scott), and Keaton Uresti (Rachel). His children were the light of his life, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness. He showered them with unconditional love, guidance, and support, shaping them into the remarkable individuals they are today.

The greatest joy of Michael's life came from his seven beloved grandchildren: Cade, Kasen, Seth, Myka, Koen, Keagan, and Khloe. He cherished every moment spent with them, delighting in their laughter, celebrating their achievements, and creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts forever. His presence on the golf course and on the side lines of their sports events will be greatly missed. His love for them knew no bounds, and they brought immeasurable happiness and fulfillment to his life.

Michael is survived by his siblings, Art Uresti, Patsy Uresti, Diane Randolph, and Linda Bennett, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who held a special place in his heart. He was deeply passionate about his family's genealogy, maintaining connections with relatives spanning multiple generations and cherishing the rich tapestry of his heritage.

Michael's journey of education and service began at St. Peter's Catholic School and Marian High School before culminating in his high school studies at the La Salette Mission Seminary in 1963. His path shifted and he went on to pursue his higher education at Stephen F. Austin, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology/Psychology in 1969.

Continuing his academic pursuits, Michael attended Loyola University in Chicago, while working with inner city youth. He embarked on a career dedicated to making a difference, starting with his work with emotionally disturbed boys in outdoor settings at the Salesmanship Boys Camp. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for camping, a love he shared with his family until his final days.

In 1976, Michael earned a Master of Science in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M University (his wife wanted him to be an Aggie). Using his skills as a licensed professional counselor, his journey led him to working with youth that were committed to state confinement, the Texas Youth Commission. He served in various capacities over thirteen years, culminating in his role as Superintendent and fulfilling the gift that God graced him with to make a difference in disadvantaged children's lives.

In 1989, Michael and Keena embarked on a new chapter together, founding Independence Farm, a residential treatment center dedicated to helping emotionally disturbed children. Michael was truly an instrument that God used to transform and shape the lives of the children he took into his home.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held at 11:00am on Friday, April 5, 2024 at Saint Mary Magdalene in Humble, Texas, where friends and family will come together to honor his memory and celebrate the legacy of love and compassion he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the La Salette Mission Center (www.lsmc.org) in honor of Michael's memory, supporting the mission he held dear to his heart. A reception in the hall will follow.

Michael Uresti's life was a testament to love, service, and the profound impact one person can make on the lives of others. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and all of the young children that he provided that father figure to throughout the years. May his soul rest in eternal peace, knowing that his legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.