On the morning of Jan. 9, 2017, Don Micheal “Mike” Jennings peacefully passed away at the age of 66 in Arlington. Mike was born July 14, 1950, in Wichita Falls. He was full of life and taught his family to spread love, laughter and joy to all without expecting anything in return. One of Mike’s favorite scriptures was "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6. To those that had the opportunity to know Mike during his wonderful 66 years of life, they truly know that he would want nothing more than for all of us to remember and live by one of his life’s mottos, “don’t worry, be happy!” Mike’s love for his family was evident in everything he said and did. He was present and involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. From playing Barbie to throwing the football, he made each grandchild feel special and loved. Not only was Mike the eternal optimist, and a dedicated family man, but he was also an entrepreneur and an inventor by nature. He was always coming up with new ideas – some great, such as the Original Lap Desk, co-invented with his uncle, Russell Jennings. Mike also enjoyed sports and was an avid golfer along with being a top-tier racquetball player. Mike was a national finalist in Men’s Doubles for his age group. Mike leaves behind his loving wife and best friend of 34 years, Nicole Andrea Jennings; seven children, Don Paul and wife, Rebecca, Jami and husband, Kenneth Nelson, Misty, Patience and husband, Jose Rodriguez, Kristopher, Destiny and husband, Jason Carnes, and Kolter; 10 grandchildren, Emily, Aiden, Isaiah, Berlyn, Ty, Campbell, Charlie, Kate, Austin and Ellie; mother, Kathy Hallgrimson and step-father, Jim Kennedy; brothers, Gary and Mark; along with countless other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Don Gene Jennings. The celebration of Mike’s life will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at The Oasis at Joe Pool Lake, 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy. in Grand Prairie. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.