Michael Stephen Almer

Michael Stephen Almer, a talented artist and loving family man, was taken away too soon at the age of 44 on May 11th, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, warmth and a deep love for his family and friends. Michael, affectionately known as Mike, Mikey and also Smiley, will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mike was born to Stephen and Cynthia Almer on November 6, 1978 in Hanover Park, IL. He grew up in the Midwest until 1989 when his father accepted a new job in Dallas, TX. During his childhood, he discovered his passion for art and all things beautiful, and it was art that became an integral part of his life. He developed his talents through the Art Magnet Program at Richardson High School and even served as the president of the art club. He won awards for his surrealistic paintings and mixed media works and they were exhibited in different galleries in Dallas. His path was solidified… he was going to be an artist.

Following his high school graduation in 1997, Mike pursued his dreams at the esteemed Savannah College of Art and Design where he proudly earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts. He had his works of art in fairs and exhibits, but quickly found out that he had to do more to pay the bills. He then established his own residential and commercial painting company, where he not only painted walls, but also created beautiful murals and faux finishes to many spaces for the next twenty years.

Mike treasured the bonds he shared with his family, friends, and mentors he had along the way. He was a “big kid” himself and relished in playing with his daughter, nieces and nephews, often throwing them up in the air, sneaking them candy and delighting at the opportunity to shoot off fireworks with them every Fourth of July. His friends may not have been blood relatives, but he thought of them as such. He and his “brothers” had a connection that transcended time, distance and challenges in life that might have caused others to lose contact.

Mike is survived by his beloved daughter, Madelyn Almer, who will forever carry his gorgeous brown eyes and spirit in her heart. He is also mourned by his sisters, Jennifer Graves and Stephanie Page (Ben Hauberg Page), nieces and nephews, Nate Page, Brighton Graves, Annabelle Page and Zyan Graves, and his grandmother, Nancy Rauwald. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Cynthia Almer, who undoubtedly welcomed him home with open arms.

Mike's memory will be honored during a private ceremony in Bainbridge Island, WA on July 1, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his name be made to:

Richardson High School

Note: Art Magnet Program

Checks are to be sent to:

Richardson High School

1250 W. Belt Line Road

Richardson, TX 75080

Or general donations to the high school can be made online via: https://www.richardsonisdfoundation.org/give

Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island.