Michael Joe Payne 

December 16, 1951 - November 19, 2014   (62)

Mike was born December 16, 1951 in Kansas City, MO and died on November 19, 2014 in Tucson, AZ.  He was preceded in death by father Bill, brother Greg, and great-nephew Joseph. Survived by mother Faye, sister Patricia (David), sister-in-law Debbi, son Christopher, grandson CJ, son Sean, nephews Jason (Amy) and Jeremy (Madison), nieces Stephanie (Harley), Bridgett, Cynthia (Jonathan), and Stacy, grand-nieces Emma, Lexie, Brooklyn, and grand-nephews Jett, Hayden, Cooper, Brock, and Bennett.

Mike had a huge heart and would give everything he had to his family or friends if they were ever in need. He was willing to go without if it would help someone else.

Mike loved to fish. There were many family lake trips over the years with his brother, sister and all the kids. His next love was auto racing, especially NASCAR and dirt track. His favorite driver was #186, his nephew Jeremy’s modified. He himself was a lifelong mechanic, working for his brother, Greg, at Southwest Spring. He worked with Greg until a disabling back injury forced  him into retirement and disability.

After a six month battle with cancer, Mike found peace from his suffering. The Payne family would like to thank everyone from Peppi’s House for the “beyond excellent” care they took   of Mike and for their support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Peppi’s House, or another charity of your choice.