Mike Aguirre Hernandez, born on May 11, 1936, in Frontera Coahuila, Mexico, peacefully left us on March 18, 2025, at the age of 88, in Live Oak, Texas. A man of moderate Catholic faith, Mike's journey was defined by laughter, love, and an unyielding dedication to his family and work.

In 1958, Mike married the love of his life, Catarina Cruz Hernandez, in Cotulla, Texas. Together, they embarked on a new adventure, moving to Illinois where Mike poured his heart into creating a successful hardscape and landscaping business, a venture that thrived for over 45 years. But if you asked Mike, his proudest legacy wasn't his business; it was his family, especially his beloved children, Michael and Julie.

Mike had an uncanny knack for humor, a gift that endeared him to everyone he met. Whether he was playfully dubbing his son-in-law "Pecoso" for his freckles, nicknaming the family cat "Lamp" for her statue-like stillness, or affectionately calling Julie "Mañana" for her tendency to procrastinate, Mike's humor was his way of showing love and appreciation. It was impossible to be in his presence without feeling uplifted.

Beyond his humor, Mike had an exceptional ability to make people feel truly seen and valued. With just a glance, he could make you feel like you belonged, turning strangers into friends and friends into family. His warmth and welcoming nature left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Felicitas Villanueva and Merced Jimenez, his siblings Carmen, Minerva, Ernesto, and Efrain, his cherished wife Catarina, and his son Michael. He is survived by his daughter Julie Ann Tarsio and her husband James Joseph Tarsio. Mike's spirit lives on in the laughter, love, and memories he leaves behind.

In accordance with his wishes, funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mike by sharing a laugh and a kind word with someone today, just as he would have done.  But if you're still in search of honoring Mike, please feel free to donate to any of his favorite charities.

LOSS – Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide

312-655-7283

St Jude's Children's Research Hospital

Http://www.stjude.org