Michael Allen Auten left this life surrounded by family in the comfort of his home to move on to his eternal home through his Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 10, 2021. Mike was born November 8, 1945 in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. For much of his life Mike was a faithful church member where he served as deacon, a Sunday School teacher and in various other capacities within his church family. Mike made a habit out of spreading love and kindness through anonymously helping people or just giving someone a leg up when he saw the need. Mike’s affable nature allowed him to excel in sales in the earlier part of his life. He was a people person and loved the connective atmosphere that working in sales allowed. His success in his field led him to eventually co-owning a stainless steel manufacturing company before retiring. Mike was a generous human. If he saw you on the street or in a restaurant, you could bet he’d have a smile and a kind word ready to go. Mike had a smile that was easily remembered because he gave it genuinely and freely. He loved his family and friends fiercely and reminded them often how important they were to him through a text, a call, or a simple word. He took pride in his family and loved to see them gather together. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Martha Jones Auten, son, Brett Auten (Joy), daughters, Angela Auten, Allison Freeman (Clay), Catherine Bruce (Sam) and 8 grandchildren, Brooke, Grace and Michael Auten, Adam and Anna Hutto, Liam and Gracie Freeman and Eveline Bruce, sister, Judy Anderson and many nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his father and mother, Price and Agnes Long Auten. A service will be held for Mr. Auten on October 14, 2021 at McLean Funeral Directors in Belmont, NC at 2:00 pm followed by internment in Greenwood Cemetery in Belmont. Pastor Don Whitener will officiate. You are welcome to visit with the family at 1:00 pm prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Lincoln County at 900 Dontia Drive, Lincolnton, North Carolina 28092. A sincere thank you to Mike’s special professional caregivers, Carrie, Rachel, Ashley, and Susan, who provided medical comfort and laughter. Condolence messages may be sent online at www.McLeanFuneral.com McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Auten family.