Celebration of Life:
Michael Gatlin, 69 of Pueblo West, Colorado passed away after a brief battle with cancer on March 13, 2025. He was born in Garden City, Kansas, on October 17, 1955. He married Becky (Barr) Gatlin on August 18, 1974. They were married for 50 years.
He is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Barbara Gatlin. He is survived by wife Becky, two children, Lance Gatlin (Kelly), Larkin Gatlin and three grandchildren, Aiden, Kinley and Layla, all of Pueblo West, Colorado.
Mike worked hard for his family, owning and operating his own businesses since 1972, other than for two years. He worked in the oil field during the 1970’s and 80’s. In 1988, he started a BBQ catering business known as Mike’s BBQ America and Gatlin Auction Company in Liberal, Kansas, serving the surrounding region. He just retired in the fall of 2024 after 36 years in the auction business. He was a past member of the Colorado Auctioneers Association, the National Auctioneers Association and served as a past President of the Kansas Auctioneers Association to which he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.
Mike never knew a stranger, loved his family and his country. He was well known for helping those in need and offering his services to the community however he could. He enjoyed fly fishing, big game and upland bird hunting, golfing and being “PaPa.”
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, and funeral services will be on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., at the Montgomery & Steward Funeral Home, in Pueblo, Colorado. For anyone unable to attend the funeral, a livestream and downloadable version of the services will be available at
www.montgomerysteward.com. Graveside services will follow the funeral at the LaVeta, Colorado Community Cemetery. A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 1:00-4:00 pm, at the First Christian Church, at 920 N. Clay, in Liberal, Kansas.
Memorial remembrances may be sent to Pheasant Heaven Charities at PO Box 338, Hugoton, Kansas 67951.
Dearesr Becky and family … Thinking of you and sending my love and sympathy during this most difficult time. Mike was such a great man and you two a perfect couple. I’ll give you some time and will be giving you a call. Stay strong! xxo
Becky and family,
My prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Rose Vest
Former FUMC member
Becky and family: Kathryn and I are so sorry for your loss. Mike will be missed and remembered by all. He was a great person, with real class. He exemplified all that is good. May you be comforted by your memories of Mike. We love you all and are thinking of you.
MARCUS & KATHRYN
Doug and Mikki Baringer
Sorry for your loss , sending thoughts and prayers .
(((HUGS))) and love to Becky, Lance, Larkin, and all the family. Bob enjoyed many happy times with Mike in the Kansas Auctioneers’ Association. Our hearts ache for you.
Love,
Bob and Cheri Thummel