Michael Parcher

Michael S. Parcher, 90, slipped the surly bonds of Earth on July 22, 2023, surrounded by family after a brief illness.  Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.  He is survived by his wife of 67 years Jean Parcher of Camarillo, CA, his sons Kevin Parcher and partner Dan Greeneof Henderson, NV, and James Parcher and wife Michelle of Ventura, CA, grandchildren Joseph and McKenna, sister Gayle Abbott and husband Jim of Sacramento, CA, and niece MichelleGuenther, husband Matt and son Wesley of Los Angeles, CA.  He was preceded in death by parents Cloyce and Utoka, and brothers Robert and Stephen.

Michael grew up in Oildale, CA, and was a 1951 graduate of Bakersfield HS.  After an enlistment in the United States Navy, where he served as an electronics technician in Adak, Alaska, he graduated with a degree in Electronics Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.  He continued to serve his country as a civilian engineer, first with the FAA, and then in the employ of the US Navy at Point Mugu where he tested missiles, notably holding a patent for the US government associated with SPARROW, and as test director in the 1980s of TOMAHAWK.  He retired after 30 years of federal service in 1988.

Following retirement from paid work, Michael was a longtime board member and President of Camarillo Hospice.  He also volunteered with the Camarillo Police Department Citizen Patrol, where he was recognized for over 5,300 hours of exemplary service over a period of 16 years.  Michael was heavily involved with the Camarillo Church of Religious Science, where he served in numerous roles over 30+ years, including President of the Board.  He is remembered by thesecommunities as a quietly cheerful and dedicated volunteer, mentor, and friend.  He was known for his pragmatic and proactive judgement and leadership.

Michael and Jean had the opportunity to travel the world, settingfoot on every continent, and together investigating the wonders of China, ancient Egypt, and transiting the Panama Canal.

Michael’s hobbies over the years were photography with his own darkroom (before digital), flying light aircraft including a family flight to Bakersfield to visit the grandparents and aerobatics in a Citabria and  a Great Lakes biplane, tennis with Jean, and to recent days with collecting music of many genresbut special interest in the recordings of Jimmie Rodgers and Bob Wills And The Texas Playboys.

Michael lived a long and full life, and will be missed by his family, friends, and all those who had an opportunity to serve alongside him.

A memorial service will be held on September 9, 2023, at 2 pm, at Perez Family Funeral Home, 1347 Del Norte Road,Camarillo, CA.