Michael Williams

Beloved husband, father, and “Paka,” Michael Leo Williams of Moorpark, California, passed away unexpectedly in the early morning of June 12, 2022, of natural causes. Mike was born on December 8, 1951, in Phoenix, Arizona, the second of three children of Richard and Pauline Williams. Because of his father’s naval career, Mike, along with older brother Richard and younger sister Maryann, moved frequently. The family lived in Honolulu, Hawaii and then moved to Midway Island in 1957. He often spoke of how much he enjoyed his childhood years on Midway, and the beautiful beaches and warm sun The family eventually settled in Port Hueneme in 1961. At Santa Clara High School Mike played football, enjoyed other sports, and was active in student government. A love of music impelled him to take up guitar and join a band, fostering a life-long love of all music genres from rock to blues. With his leadership qualities and people skills, Mike was voted ASB President at Santa Clara High School. It was there he met the love of his life, Teresa Aguilar. Following high school graduation in 1969, a college scholarship took Mike to Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, California. He later attended Ventura College, before transferring to UCLA, graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychobiology. While studying at UCLA Mike began working at the university’s research lab and developed an interest in computer science and its evolving technology. There began his 40 year career as Computer Program Analyst, maintaining UCLA Medical Center’s vast computer systems. Throughout his lifetime, Mike was devoted to all things Bruin and would never miss a UCLA football game Mike and Teri married on December 29, 1973, at Santa Clara Church in Oxnard, and settled in Moorpark in 1975. In 1979 they welcomed son Michael and became an active family in the Moorpark community. For many years Mike served as a coach, referee and Commissioner for AYSO and as a volunteer in Moorpark Little League where he became a much loved coach and mentor. A fair, encouraging, and positive role model, Mike reminded his players to “go out there and play hard and don’t forget to have fun.” His players still remember his positivity and good-heartedness which provided life lessons. He was active with the Boys and Girls Club of Moorpark, helping with the annual auction and golf tournament. Mike was generous in giving his time and talents to the community. In retirement, Mike enjoyed playing golf, pickle ball, and riding his bike. With his brother, he traveled to destination music festivals in Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans. In 2018 the brothers visited Ireland to see the “mother country,” hear the music, and have a real Guinness.. He loved playing guitar and going to concerts; Sting was his all-time favorite. Mike and Teri had many global adventures, but his happiest moments were spent entertaining family and friends with backyard barbecues. Always there for friends and family, he lovingly lent a hand to all who needed his help. MIke’s smile and huge heart were his hallmark traits. Mike’s greatest joy was the love he shared with Teri (his life partner), and Michael (his best friend) and being a grandfather The special bond “Paka” Mike shared with his grandchildren filled his days and his heart. He cherished their time together, especially watching them play sports. Together, Paka and Grandma took every opportunity to take care of Lola and Mateo, be a presence in their young lives, and watch them grow. Mike leaves a lasting legacy of family love and commitment; and serving others. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Teri, son Michael, daughter in law Julie, grandchildren Lola and Mateo, and brother Richard, as well as his and Teri’s extended families. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held Monday, July 11, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Church in Moorpark. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Moorpark or to a charity of choice. “On and on the rain will fall Like tears from a star Like tears from a star. On and on the rain will say How fragile we are How fragile we are.” -Sting