BRAY, Michael Timothy (aka Peaches) - Passed away in San Francisco, of complications from a long illness, surrounded by his family on May, 21, 2007. Born in San Francisco on October 7, 1950; survived by his loving mother Anita Betts, father Robert F. Bray, loving stepfather Charlie Betts; sister Susan Hawlk and husband Jim, and their sons Kevin and Kris (wife Hannah); daughter Julia Bray and her children Kawika and Julian; adopted daughter Jennifer and husband Billy Andrzekewski, and their children Allie and Billie; and dear friends Bev Holly and Sean Wall. Predeceased by his brother, Patrick Bray. Michael was a graduate of Skyline HS in Oakland CA, class of 1968. He was a talented drummer, marching in the Blue Devils Marching Band, and moved on to form his own band in H.S. Michael always marched to his own drum. He traveled the world snorkeling, skiing, and hang gliding. He was at the forefront of glider development, and his experimental designs are still in use today. Michael owned and operated a Canadian wilderness hunting and fishing camp in 1991 for four years, which survives today. Michael loved life, and met many friends along the way, always listening to and solving problems of those around him, though never sharing his own. Michael had a big heart, and accepted everyone. Michael began as a plastering and stucco contractor, learning the trade from his stepfather Charlie, eventually buying that business and running it as his own. Michael was a very successful business man, and eventually this led to working for Kenyon Plastering Inc., the largest stucco company in the country. Michael worked for Kenyon Plastering in Sacramento, eventually creating his own division in 1999 as a General Manager in Santa Rosa. Fly freely, grasshopper, rest in peace. All Michael's friends are invited to attend the celebration of life which will be held at the Willowside Hall, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., 5299 Hall Rd, corner of Hall and Willowside Rd. Followed by a gathering at the 8 Ball Tavern in Cotati. His final wishes were to be scattered in the ocean at a later date.
Published in the Press Democrat on 5/30/2007.