Michael Orton, Jr.

Mike was born in Texas City, Texas on July 8, 1917 to Mr. and Mrs. M.J. Orton Sr. Shortly after, the family moved to Houston, Texas before the birth of his Sister, Marjorie, now Duroy. As a young man, he joined the United States Navy and served through WWII as an Ensign J.G. Mike returned to Houston when his service was complete, married, began working for Beacon Supply Company, Inc. Eventually became major stock holder and Chairman of the Board and served of several Houston banks. He became a father to his beloved daughter, Pamela Kay. He retired from his company in 1990. Mike and his wife Sandy moved to Marfa, and Valentine, Texas to fulfill their dream to become ranchers full time on their Davis Mountain and Chaves County, NM ranches. Mike never stopped working, loving ranching, acquiring land or the art of the trade. Mike left the life on November 25, 2009. He was preceded in this new journey to his daddy and mother, and by his beloved grandson, Trent Paul Tooter Carleton. Mike is sorely missed by the family and numerous others that he continuously mentored. Mike is survived by his loving friend, constant companion wife, Sandra; his daughter Pamela K. Carleton and husband Daniel of Campwood, Texas; 2 step-daughters and their families, Casandra E. Sullivan and husband Michael of Catsprings, TX, and Clarissa D. Davis and husband Pat of Montgomery, TX; grandchildren Danielle Kilpatrick and her husband Cody of Dallas, TX, Philip M. Carleton, and Nathan D. Carleton both from Campwood; 7 step-grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and 5 step-great-grandchildren. In closing, Mike was a man of the earth and admired Gods handy-work to which he will gratefully return. Mike always said Do not burn your bridges; you never know when you might have to cross that bridge again. Cremation is under the direction of Terpening Son Mortuary.