Mike Flowers, founder and previous owner of Lone Star Bar & Grill, died in Houston, Texas, on Friday, 22 April. He was 68 years old.
Despite originally hailing from the US, Flowers and his wife Bobbi became firmly ingrained in the Cayman community when they owned and ran the Lone Star. Many a divemaster, construction worker, accountant, lawyer and the occasional movie star pulled up a stool to the bar and all were treated as equals. The couple became surrogate parents for young people who had travelled far from home to work in the Cayman Islands.
Flowers was a very well-known figure in the local restaurant industry, starting years ago what would become the Taste of Cayman in modern times. It all began with the Chili Cookoff, which was created by him to raise money for charity.
His big personality, generosity towards his patrons, and kindness he showed his staff made him a much beloved character on the island. Many remember him and Bobbi looking after US transplants in the dive industry every Thanksgiving with a free meal.
Even when he and his family moved back to his home state of Texas, he never forgot the Cayman Islands. Daughter Summer Flowers spoke of his time here as being some of “the best years of his life”.
The Cayman Compass published this piece in Feb. 2022 about memories of the Lone Star in the ’90s, which highlighted how much Flowers meant to so many people and what a unique individual he was.
Bobbi and Mike were married for 32 years. She and their three children, Summer, Tori and Matt, were able to be with him during his last days.
A private service is planned in Texas, with a memorial service in Cayman to be announced at a later date.
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So very sorry to hear of this loss. Remembering way back when, we almost bought the Lone Star, unfortunately our backer changing her mind. The Lone Star is an “institution” loved, as was Mike and will be missed by all.
We are so sad to hear of Mikes passing. He was indeed a caring and compassionate individual. We recall such fun times at Lone Star, where everyone was treated like they were family. Mike and Lone Star were part of the “charm” of the old Cayman, something visitors today will never be able to experience. RIP Mike and know your legacy will never be forgotten. You are missed by many!!!