Michael Jordan

1923 - 2010

Michael T. Jordan
On October 2, 2010 the Holy Spirit welcomed Michael T. Jordan into his loving arms. Michael was born July 25, 1923 in Wilkes-Barre, PA to John and Ida Jordan. He was educated there and at 18 moved to Brooklyn, NY where he attended the Bay Ride School of Business.
In 1943 he entered the 75th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army during World War II, and proudly served in combat in the European Theater, including D-Day, winter in the Ardennes, and the Battle of the Bulge where he earned the Bronze Star with Cluster for heroism for risking his life to go back to save a fellow soldier. He also subsequently served for over a year during the Korean War.
Upon returning to the States after World War II, he worked as a bookkeeper, taxi cab driver, and casino manager, before embarking on a career with Bank of America in Santa Maria, CA. It was at the bank there that he met the love of his life, Zilda, the woman who would become his loving wife for over 60 years. After 40 years of dedication and hard work, Michael retired as Vice President and Manager of the Watsonville branch.
During his career he was active in numerous church, business and community organizations. He was an active member, past President, and Paul Harris Fellow of the Watsonville Rotary. In 1977 he was named Man of the Year by the Watsonville Chamber of Commerce for outstanding community service. His various achievements and awards are too numerous to list. They include a State of California Senate Rules Committee commendation in 1987 for civic accomplishments by Henry Mello, and a Congressional Award for outstanding contribution to the community, the state and the nation from Leon Panetta, then a Member of the House of Representatives.
Michael was a man of great faith and the Church was always central in his life. He was a dedicated member of Holy Eucharist Catholic Community, serving in almost every role, including Eucharistic minister, lector and sponsor.
As an outgoing, caring and generous man, Michael was very well-known, respected and loved by many in Watsonville, Santa Maria, and beyond. He proudly wore his Army uniform and marched in the Veterans' Day Parade in Watsonville every year. He touched so many lives, never said no to anyone in need, and devoted himself to his family, community, and God.
Michael leaves his loving wife Zilda, daughter Dechen, younger brother Jack, and sisters-in-law Linda Jordan and Lillian Leal. He was preceded in death by his son Michael and older brother Richard. He will be sadly missed by numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Michael, Papa, Uncle Mike, Babe... welcome Home.

A Rosary will be held at the Holy Eucharist Catholic Community Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. and Mass of Christian Burial to follow. Visitation to begin at 2 p.m. Graveside Services will be held Friday 11:00am at Santa Maria Cemetary District. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Holy Eucharist Parish Development Fund, or the charity of your choice.