Mike

We raise our glasses to toast the life of a man who made us laugh, love, and live more fully. Kenneth Michael "Mike" York, born August 2, 1958, in Lawndale, California, has set down his drumsticks and taken his final bow on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at the age of 65 years 11 months and 30 days. Mike was a man of many talents and a heart full of love for his family and friends. He was ambitious, always looking for ways to improve his craft as a construction worker with Paladino Nash, he also laid water pipe line, loved listening to blue grass music, rock and roll and country. He was funny, with a quick wit that could light up the room. He was loyal, a true friend and brother who could be counted on in times of need. And above all, he was thoughtful, always considering the feelings and needs of those around him.

Mike was a lover of music, a devoted drummer, and the best friend a dog named Bailey could ever hope for. He had an undying love for his family, cherishing every opportunity to be with his sisters, their children, and his brother-in-law, Carroll who became Mikes constant companion while he was sick. His home in Perryville, Arkansas was more than just a house; it was a place filled with joyful noises, warm hugs, and constant laughter. As Mike would often say, echoing the words of George Bernard Shaw, "Life does not cease to be funny when people die any more than it ceases to be serious when people laugh."

We celebrate Mike's life with gratitude and a smile, for his spirit lives on in those he touched. He is survived by his daughter Gaea Cash of Perryville, a son in Fayetteville, sisters, Becky Hunt and husband Carroll and Donna VanDalsen all of Perryville; and his best friend, Rita Bensley of Morrilton along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces, nephews and many many friends. He now joins his parents, Ken and Joyce York, and his sister, Tammy Cragar, in the grand symphony of the afterlife.

Mike's life was a song, and we were all lucky to be part of the melody. We invite all who knew him to share their memories, laughter, and love on his memorial page. Please feel free to upload photos that capture the essence of this ambitious, funny, loyal, and thoughtful man, who we knew and loved as Mike. His song may have ended, but the melody lingers on.