Michael Cary Mason was born on December 15, 1943 in Sikeston, Missouri, to Margaret Clairissa Mason and Cary Houston Mason. He moved to Dallas as a young child where he attended First Baptist Church Dallas with his family during his most formative years. As a teenager, he attended Bryan Adams High School, where he forged close friendships that lasted his entire life. Mike earned his bachelor's degree from Texas Tech before spending his young adult years working in education and IT, and was honored to serve in the Marine reserves for eight years. In 1972, he had the good fortune of being introduced to Mary Mitchell, who would eventually become his wife and life's partner. In 1984, he made a bold career shift at the age of 40 and was accepted into the Dallas Police Academy, where he discovered his true passion for keeping people safe. His unwavering dedication to helping others and his selfless nature served as a beacon of light in the city of Dallas.

He was immensely proud of the work he did for the DPD over the years, and made a big impression on everyone he worked with. As the president of his class, he was respected amongst his peers and became known as a leader to them for years to come. He was affectionately known by several monikers such as Mikey and Big Mike, and was often referred to as a gentle giant. By the time he retired, Senior Corporal Mason had made a lasting impact on all he came into contact with on the job.

It was often said about Mike that he was a man of few words, so the ones he spoke had greater impact. For example, if he mentioned that he wanted a new car, you could expect to see a new one in the driveway by the end of the day. He loved anything to do with cars and considered it a great privilege to assist others in taking care of their vehicles. He was an avid music lover, and would spend hours pouring over bluegrass, old country, 50s-60s pop, and americana records, cassettes, CDs, and playlists. He loved watching old westerns and took personal offense if you didn't know who the actors were.

Mike was a remarkable husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose kindness touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He exemplified compassion and generosity in every aspect of his life, from the smallest gestures like getting the oil changed in your car for you, to the most significant acts of benevolence. He accepted Christ as a young boy and lived out his faith every day after. His mother used to insist that he would one day be a preacher. While he did not make it his profession, he did make it his life's work to be the quiet hands and feet of Christ to others. Mike is survived by his wife, Mary Mason, his children Noelle Mason, Billy and Emily Mason, and Jimmy and Hiedi Mason, his grandchildren Elizabeth, Rowan, and Holland Mason, his brother Eddie Mason and sister Ann Becklund, and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Rick Mason. Mike, aka Uncle Mickey, will always be remembered for the profound impact he had on the hearts of those around him, leaving behind a legacy of love and empathy that will endure for years to come.