Michael Joel Sleeth

Michael J Sleeth, age 76 of Belton Texas went to be with the Lord on February 15, 2026 after a lengthy illness. As heartbroken as his family is, we know he is no longer suffering and now has the quality of life he cherished. Mike was known to many as being a man of humility with great integrity, humble, great leadership qualities and quick to give attention to others rather than himself.

Mike was born May 18, 1949 to the late Joel and Leta Barnes Sleeth. He graduated from North Central High School in Spokane where he was very active in all sports and earned a college baseball scholarship. He later served his country proudly as a Vietnam veteran and received many honors including two Bronze Stars. Upon his return from overseas, he was assigned to Fort Hood Texas where he met his wife Pat. They married October 8, 1971 and was looking forward to their 55th anniversary.

Along with sports, Mike loved racing cars. Early in their marriage, he raced cars at Little River Dragway as well as Texas Thunder Speedway in Killeen. When he moved on from racing, he started bringing home other cars he admired and loved to work on classic cars and muscle cars. His last car was a 1931 Ford Coupe.

Mike spent 33 years in law enforcement in Bell County including Temple Police Department, Belton Police Department and Bell County Sheriff Department. His final duty was Police Chief in Belton Texas where he retired May 2008. He loved his work, serving his community/peers and always strived to bring out the best in those around him. He enjoyed his retirement prior to time being cut short due to years of health issues.

Mike was a devoted father and grandfather. He was always quick to give “Life Lessons”.

Mike was preceded in death by a son, Justin Sleeth as well as his sister Velda Williams of Washington State. Survivors include his wife Pat, daughter Heather Ferman, her husband Chris, son Matthew Sleeth, his wife Robin, 3 grandchildren Makayla, Braden and Kaleb Ferman and brother Bob Sleeth and his wife Joyce of Spokane Washington.

Mike requested that he be cremated and have a simple service at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.