Michael Ray Todd, 69, of Liberal, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on May 1, 2025, at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City.
Mike was born on January 9, 1956, in Tulia, Texas, to Moonyeen (Losson) and Talmadge Ray Todd. He grew up helping in his parents’ restaurant, where he developed a strong work ethic and a natural ability to connect with others.
Mike dedicated 35 years of his professional life to Ben E. Keith Foods, where he was known not only for his award-winning sales numbers but also for the respect and trust he earned from customers—including schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and restaurants. In addition to his long career in food distribution, Mike was the proud owner of Comet Cleaners for 17 years. He poured his heart into the business, forming meaningful relationships with his customers, many of whom became lifelong friends. Mike’s genuine care for people was evident in every conversation and every act of service.
Mike married Anita “Nita” Faye Watkins, and together they had two children. After Nita’s passing in 1998, Mike devoted himself fully to raising them. He was a supportive and involved father—from Kids Inc. sports to Odyssey of the Mind—but especially through his work with the Boy Scouts of America. Together with longtime friend Harley Kruse, he dedicated his summers and weekends to Troop 73 in Liberal and the Santa Fe Trail Council. A second-generation Eagle Scout himself, Mike helped his son and many other young men earn their Eagle Scout rank.
His two dogs, Tucker and Cooper, were not just pets—they were cherished companions who brought him daily joy and unconditional love.
Mike will be remembered for his servant’s heart, commanding presence, and unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and community.
He is survived by his son, Jeremy, and daughter-in-law, Amanda, of Lenexa, KS; two grandsons, Pierce Todd and Rhys Todd; siblings, Kelly Todd and sister-in-law Donna of Lubbock, TX, and Michelle Todd of Amarillo, TX; lifelong friends, Arnie and Patty Rohloff and family of Liberal, KS; and the many customers who turned into family.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Nita Todd; daughter, Morgan Todd; parents, Moonyeen and Talmadge Todd; and brother, Carey Todd.
A memorial service honoring his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Faith Tabernacle in Liberal, KS, with Pastors Rex Petty and Jeff Mitchell officiating. Mike will be buried next to his wife, Nita, and daughter, Morgan, at Restlawn Cemetery in a private family service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made payable to Troop 73, in care of Weeks Family Funeral Home & Crematory, P.O. Box 1200, Sublette, KS 67877. You may express your condolences online at weeksfamilyfuneralhome.com.