Michael Ray Vela

Michael Vela passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, selflessness, and service to others that will forever be remembered by all who knew him.

Michael was born on July 10, 1961, in Wharton, Texas, to Raymond and Mercedes Vela. He graduated from Wharton County Junior College with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and later attended Lamar University.

Michael met the love of his life, Gloria Mata Vela, at a birthday celebration, and the two never looked back. They were married on July 31, 1982, building a life together rooted in love, commitment, and family.

Throughout his life, Michael was passionate about coaching baseball, serving as a youth group leader with Jesus Rocks, participating in the Knights of Columbus, and remaining active in the ACTS community. His faith and dedication to serving others was central to who he was. Professionally, he worked as a purchasing agent for Rehability for fifteen years before managing his parents' family-owned business, Victoria's Mexican Restaurant, for another ten years.

Above all, Michael was a devoted family man with a heart of gold. He was selfless, compassionate, and always willing to put others before himself. Helping people was not simply something he did; it was a reflection of his character. Whether through his faith, mentorship, or everyday acts of kindness, Michael made a lasting difference in the lives of others. His generosity, guidance, and unwavering love for his family will remain among his greatest legacies.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria Vela; his mother, Mercedes Vela; his brother and sister-in-law David and Melissa Vela and his sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Christopher Owens, his sisters-in-law, Yvonne Rodriguez and Dale Martinez; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his children, Michael and Michaela Vela, father, Raymond Vela, Parents-in-law, Alex and Lillie Mata; and niece, Teague Owens Rab.

Michael's life was a testament to what it means to love deeply, give selflessly, and serve wholeheartedly. Though his absence leaves a void that can never be filled, his faith, kindness, and love will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home with a rosary recited at 7pm. Funeral Mass and Rite of Committal will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 10 am at Holy Family Catholic Church in Wharton with burial to follow in Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton.

May he rest peacefully in the loving arms of the Lord, reunited with those who went before him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.