Obituary of Michael Andrew Dumller

Michael Andrew Dumller Our beloved Michael passed away on December 5th at the family home where he grew up. He was 52 years old. Born in Maywood, California he was brought to Santa Cruz, in his Grandfather's Cessna airplane, when he was 3 months old. He lived in and loved Santa Cruz and the Ocean for the rest of his life. His education began at the Parent Education Nursery School on Morrissey Blvd. then on to Bay View Elementary, Mission Hill Junior High and graduation from Santa Cruz High School. He earned an AA degree at Cabrillo College, studied diesel mechanics at San Jose City College and received his Captains' license from a mariner school, at the Ferry Building in San Francisco. He loved to work and began early as a Sentinel newsboy and later worked at several Santa Cruz restaurants as he finished his education. His real passion was for boats and the Sea. He spent long afternoons crabbing and fishing on the Wharf. As he grew older, some 'Old Timers' took him under their wing and taught him the techniques and art of deep sea fishing on the Stagnaro boats. He spent the rest of his life working on the Wharf and in the Yacht Harbor for various fishing and charter boat companies. His last employer and long time friends were Kenny Stagnaro and Dino Stagnaro owners of Stagnaro Charter Boats. From Childhood Michael's life was framed by illness and disability but his spirit soared and he never allowed his difficulties to define him. His strength, courage and perseverance in the face of adversity earned the admiration and respect of all who knew him. Despite his small stature he was a big man. Michael has many real friends who trusted him, confided in him, sought his wisdom in time of trouble and loved him unconditionally as he loved them. His was a good life, a happy life, lived to the fullest. He appreciated the gift of each day and taught us all how precious life is. When someone asked him if he ever thought "Why me?" Michael would answer, "Why not me?" He loved to laugh, tease and play tricks on the unsuspecting. Family celebrations, Sunday breakfast and taco night were not to be missed. He was a gambler and risk taker at heart whether it be a dangerous surgery, sky diving or the stock market. Michael leaves behind so many wonderful friends who have shown their love and support throughout the years and especially in his final days. We are grateful to them and to those who did not know him but share our grief. Michael is survived by his parents, Dick and Sue Dumller, his brother Don Dumller and wife Leslie, his sister Erin Dumller and many loving Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and Dear Friends too numerous to name. He will be in our hearts all the days of our lives. A celebration of Mike's life will be held at the Harvey West Clubhouse and Scout House on Sunday, December 12th beginning at noon. We hope you will bring a memory or two to share.