John Michael McDonald

John Michael “Mike” McDonald, lovingly known as “Mighty Mike,” passed away on January 29, 2026, at the age of 74. He was a longtime resident of Wylie, Texas.

Mike was born on October 26, 1951, in Houston, Texas, and grew up in Odessa, where he graduated from Permian High School in 1970. That same year, he met the love of his life, Verna Van Winkle. Less than a year later, they were married, beginning a beautiful 54-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion until the time of his passing.

Family was the center of Mike’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Verna McDonald; his son, John Coby McDonald of Wylie, Texas; his daughter, Jody McDonald Stevens and her husband Shawn Stevens of Wills Point, Texas; six cherished grandchildren who lovingly knew him as “Paw Paw” and a brother, Jim McDonald of Houston.” He is also survived by extended family members and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward McDonald and Giene Lavon McDonald; his parents-in-law, Charles and Neva Van Winkle; and his brother, Bill McDonald.

Mike spent his life in sales and marketing and was an accomplished sales professional, dynamic speaker, trainer, mentor, and published author. He built friendships and professional relationships around the world, dedicating himself to serving others and encouraging those with an entrepreneurial spirit to dream big and pursue financial freedom. In every area of his life, he consistently put others first.

Mike’s personality, humor, and wit were larger than life, and the only thing bigger was his heart. He was the hardest-working man many knew, with an unmatched work ethic and an inability to sit still for long. If he wasn’t working or spending time with family, he was fixing something or building something around the house. He loved DIY projects and took pride in working with his hands.

He loved his children deeply and gave back to his community by serving as a youth sports coach and as a chaperone for the Poteet High School band for seven years. One of his greatest joys was taking his bride out dancing and to see his favorite country artist perform — that artist being his son.

Mike was a master storyteller who always had a tale for every situation and a joke ready for every moment. He loved hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors, often declaring, “THIS IS LIVING.” He also had a passion for poker, especially No-Limit Texas Hold ’Em. A skilled player, he won several bracelets at WSOP regional events and proudly competed in the World Series of Poker Main Event in Las Vegas.

A Master Mason and member of the Odessa Shrine Club, Mike served three years as Chairman of the Odessa Shrine Circus, helping provide free healthcare for children at more than 22 Shriner Hospitals across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. He was deeply passionate about helping these children and dedicated himself to making a difference in their lives.

Mike will be remembered for his big heart, tireless work ethic, love of family, and his ability to make people feel seen, valued, and loved. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the example he set for those who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:21

There will be a funeral service to celebrate Mike’s life at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Allen Family Funeral Options; with a visitation one hour prior to service 2-3:00 p.m.

There will be a reception to follow.

Mike will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Garden, in Odessa, Texas.