Juan Miguel "Mike" Turrubiates' Obituary
Juan Miguel “Mike” Turrubiates (1951-2025)
It is with profound sadness and immense love that we announce the passing of our patriarch, Juan Miguel “Mike” Turrubiates, who died peacefully on October 19, 2025, at the age of 74. His final chapter on this earth closed, leaving a legacy of laughter, hard work, and unconditional love that will forever echo in the hearts of his family and friends.
Born in Lyford, Texas, Mike was the second-youngest of a bustling family of 13 children—a testament to the vibrant, resilient life he was born into. His parents, immigrants from Mexico, instilled in him the fierce drive and determination that defined his life, setting the foundation for the fulfilling life he would build. A lifelong thirst for knowledge, sparked by an encyclopedia set in his childhood home, fueled his curiosity and continuous learning.
His world changed forever when he enrolled at Texas A&I University-Kingsville. It was there he met the love of his life, Mary Lou. When asked about their first encounter, they would often charmingly agree: “He was handsome, and she was pretty.” But it was his genuine kindness, humor, and caring nature that sealed their fate. For Mary Lou, the proposal was an immediate, resounding yes—she simply knew they were meant to be—two hearts from small towns, united by a love that was anything but small.
They returned to the Rio Grande Valley, where he set to work building his and Mary Lou’s future. While attending the University of Texas-Pan American to complete his degree in Business Administration, he tirelessly worked two jobs. This unwavering dedication ensured he could support his wife and pursue his dream—a characteristic that defined his approach to everything.
His greatest joy arrived with his daughters, starting with Yvette, and eventually growing to a family of three loving girls with the birth of Yvonne and Lyzette. He was the definition of a proud father: a constant presence, documenting every milestone on film, meticulously collecting trophies, and showing up for every event. He went above and beyond for the ones he loved, a supportive force in their lives.
This unwavering support expanded as his family grew to include eight beloved grandchildren. Whether it was cheering on a granddaughter at a softball game, attending awards assemblies, recitals, and theatre productions, or even watching wrestling from afar just to feel closer to a grandson in another state, he always showed up. He had the special gift of filling any room with laughter and inappropriate jokes, making every moment an adventure.
Though he built a successful career as an accountant, even continuing to assist his clients after retirement (and famously requesting his computer and printer be with him at the rehab!), he was a passionate entrepreneur at heart. He poured his creativity into ventures like a clothing line called Modular Kids, a brain teaser called Tricky triangle, and his deep love for history into Southwest Designs. This retail store sold authentic Native American artifacts and jewelry, born from his passion. He spent weekends setting up a kiosk in Harlingen, with his kids in tow to help. He traveled throughout the Valley to conduct presentations and participate in powwows, eager to share his knowledge and appreciation.
His later years were spent enjoying the simple pleasures: reading the news and watching the History Channel. But nothing brought him more genuine joy than his family.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary Lou; his three devoted daughters; eight cherished grandchildren; and his siblings, who will all carry his memory and distinctive, infectious laugh forward.
Mike taught us that hard work is essential, that laughter is the best medicine, and that family is everything. While our hearts ache with his absence, we are eternally grateful for the time we had with our patriarch—a truly unique, caring, and unforgettable man.
Mike is preceded in death by his loving parents, Nicolas and Angela Turrubiates. Siblings: Aucencio Turrubiates, Eulojia Cervantes (Agustin), Baldomera Yanez (Niceforo), Nina Garza (Andres), and Rosa Thomas, his nephews, Celso Cervantes and Juan Cervantes, and Ana Bragg.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Mary Lou Turrubiates; his daughters, Yvette Soza (Mario Perez), Yvonne Reyes (Fred III), and Lyzette Alanis (Jorge); and his eight cherished grandchildren: Jeffrey Soza, Keira Soza, Alex Perez, Aaron Perez, Freddy Lee Reyes IV, Rey Reyes, Ellie Clementine Alanis, and Joaquin Rex Alanis. Siblings: Aurelio Turrubiates (Soledad), Vickie Cortazo (Ernesto), Joseph Theodore Turrubiates, Sara Escobedo (Rudy), Matilde Cortez (Juan+), Joe Turrubiates, Nick Turrubiates, brother-in-law, Rick Thomas (Rosa+). He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at McCaleb Funeral Home, with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Weslaco. Juan will be laid to rest at Sacred Park Cemetery in Mercedes.
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