Michael Venegas

Everyone’s life is the sum total of all of the people they have met, the things they have done, the places they have gone. Michael Venegas was no exception. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Michael will be remembered as a very exceptional person. Michael’s life journey began on February 3, 1940. He first greeted the world in Arizona. His parents' names were Lorenzo Venegas and Josefina Portillo. He was raised with 6 siblings, Joseph, Henry, Walter, Eddie, Irene and Mercedes. Michael was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his family sharing many life experiences over the years. Michael was a typical teenager, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He served in the United States Army. There, his fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home. Falling in love is a huge milestone for any person. Just knowing that you have met that special someone is a magical feeling. Michael experienced that with Maria Elena Mena and the couple exchanged wedding vows on April 11, 1970. The wedding took place in Los Angeles. Empathic and loyal, Michael was committed to making his new family happy. While everything a person does in life contributes to who they grow into, it is ultimately this same person who holds the most influence on the next generation. Michael was blessed with 3 children, Martin, Veronica and Jennifer. Michael worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs, raising his children in a positive and nurturing environment. Later on, Michael was blessed with the gift of 2 grandchildren, Gabriel and Matias. Fortunately Michael enjoyed what he did for a living after his time with the army. Showing a strong work ethic, Michael worked diligently in the automotive industry for forty years, many of them as a parts manager. A person's hobbies often mirror who they have become. Michael enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in a number of different activities, including fishing, camping, horseracing, reading, BBQing, telling great stories, taking an active role in our lives, taking care of and being taken care of by his beloved mom . He was usually willing to share his interests with others. Michael Venegas left us on October 29, 2011. He passed away in San Diego, California. He was 71 years old. The cause of death was due to pneumonia. He is survived by his wife Maria Elena, his children Martin, Veronica and Jennifer, his grandchildren Gabriel and Matias, and his siblings Joe, Henry, Walter, Eddie, Irene and Meche. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A funeral service was held at The Little Chapel of the Roses in Bonita on Saturday, November 5, 2011. Michael was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California. Simply stated, Michael was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Michael leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Michael Venegas.