ARLINGTON, Texas — This season will mark a bittersweet end of an era at Six Flags Over Texas. For 47 seasons, the park’s Director of Operations has been employed at the park and now he’s retiring.

Mike Apple began his career in 1967 as a ride operator for the Astrolift. Throughout the years he’s always taken great pride in his work for the park. During his tenure, he has seen or been a part of nearly every innovative moment at the park. In addition to working as a ride operator, Mike worked in Human Resources, Park Services, Games and eventually made his way back to Operations where he served as the Operations Manager for more than 25 years before he was promoted to Director of Operations in 2007.

Many have had the pleasure of hearing him tell great stories about the years when Angus Wynne, Jr. — the founder of Six Flags Over Texas — would roam the midway. As a member of management, Mike would often be found at the front of the park during the hot summer months wearing a short sleeved button downed shirt, slacks, cowboy boots, name badge and carrying a trash picker.

This week, Mike was honored by current and former Six Flags employees, inside his favorite entertainment venue — The Crazy Horse Saloon.

Apple, as he’s affectionately called by co-workers, has told colleagues that as a retiree he plans to travel, work in his yard, and for the first time in several years be home to celebrate his wedding anniversary with his wife instead of being at the park.

The new season at Six Flags Over Texas kicks off on Saturday, February 28.

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