Mike Chase

Mike Chase, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in Lubbock, Texas, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family and friends Mike walked into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was 74 years old.

Born on July 24, 1950, in Abilene, Texas, to Lewis and Elizabeth “Bea” Chase, Mike grew up with a strong sense of family and passion for sports. A proud graduate of Cooper High School, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from McMurry College in 1972 and a Master of Education from Tarleton State in 1974.

In 1969, Mike met the love of his life, Rose Lewis. The two were married in 1971 and shared more than 53 years of love, laughter and friendship. Together, they raised two sons, Jeff and Brian.

Mike’s professional life was deeply rooted in his passion for athletic training. While a student at McMurry University, he pioneered the development of the school’s athletic training department. Upon graduation, he began his career at Clear Lake High School before returning to Tarleton State as a Graduate Assistant while completing his master’s degree. In 1974, he and his young family returned to Abilene, where Mike served as Head Athletic Trainer at McMurry College.

A two-time inductee into the McMurry University Hall of Honor, Mike was celebrated for his contributions as part of the 1968 Indians football team and the 1968–69 basketball team. His dedication to athletics was matched only by his commitment to his family and friends.

In 1981, Mike transitioned into the energy sector, taking a position with Pride Pipeline and Refinery. His leadership abilities quickly shone through, and by 1983, he had been promoted to District Manager, prompting the family’s move to Lubbock, where he remained until his passing.

Mike’s love for sports extended beyond his career. He was an avid baseball and golf fan who enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm with anyone within ear shot. His generous spirit also led him to volunteer with Meals on Wheels, a reflection of his desire to help others.

While he loved sports, his greatest passion was being Pops to his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and their many friends. He never missed a choir concert, practice or game. He loved spending his later years being their biggest fan.

Having never met a stranger, Mike always had a positive or funny story to share about a friend, an athletic event he had experienced with someone somewhere, or that we could all remember or relate to with a smile.

He was special man who left an unforgettable impression on those he touched!!!

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Rose; his son Jeff Chase and wife Kelly of Lubbock; grandsons Garrett and Brian Chase; daughter-in-law Kara Campbell and her husband Brad; granddaughters Haley Vega and her husband Jeremiah, and Hope Kinman; and two great-grandsons, Chase and Cohen Vega. Numerous cousins, nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Brian Chase in 2000; his parents, Lewis and Bea Chase; and his older brother, Jim Chase.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Mike’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, at First Christian Church in Lubbock, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Meals on Wheels or Hospice of Lubbock, in memory of Mike’s enduring spirit of kindness and care.