Ernest Eugene Michael

1938 - 2024

Ernest Eugene Michael, 86, of Blue Springs, Missouri passed away on August 2, 2024, surrounded by the love and support of his family. He was born February 18, 1938 in Vallejo, California, the son of Andrew Michael and Thelma Michael (Conlin). Ernie was a 1956 graduate of Vallejo High School.

On July 21, 1956, Ernie was united in marriage to his life-long love, Pamelia Ann Mountaine. Ernie and Pam knew each other since they were young teens. They met at "Eat and Run", a popular burger place and teen hangout in Vallejo. Ernie proudly served our country in the United States Navy from 1955-1961, first in the Reserves, then Active Duty, then one last year in the Reserves, being Honorably Discharged as an Engineman Second Class. Ernie and Pam started their family in Vallejo, moved to Napa in 1972 and in 2001, moved to Missouri to be near their kids and grandkids.

During his teen years, he and Pam would work during the summer at Monte Rio Bakery and Soda Fountain, a bakery owned by his mom and stepdad, located in the Russian River Valley. He did some of the baking, and Pam worked in the front of house, selling the breads and pastries. His sister, Karen recalled a funny story of when Ernie forgot to put the yeast in the chocolate cakes and they all came out as flat as frisbees. In fact, Ernie and his friend went ahead and "played frisbee" with the cakes before tossing them in the berry bushes growing up the hill behind the bakery!

In high school, he took an interest in welding and was enrolled in a special welding class. His teacher recognized his talent and went on to get him a job at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, working on submarines. In 1968, he went to work as a Pipefitter for the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 343, working on industrial projects until his retirement. He was a member of the Union for 55 years.

Ernie was a quiet, reserved man. He wasn't big on crowds. He was a hard worker and a great provider who was generous to his family and others. Ernie was an electronic genius. He was always dabbling in the latest technology, whether it was stereo equipment, building his own CB radios, HAM radios, and later, computers. He often repaired televisions for people as well.

Ernie loved the water, and especially the ocean, which held a special place in his heart. He and Pam would go anytime they could get away. He loved dogs and birds and at one time raised hand fed parakeets of every color. When he was a younger man, he enjoyed fishing. One time he brought some live catfish home and let them swim in the family swimming pool. Above all though, he loved his family.

He is survived by his children: Kenneth Michael, Cheryl Adams and her husband Mark of Missouri, Julie Kennedy and her husband Warren also of Missouri, seven grandchildren: Stephanie Adams, Lindsey Wallace and her husband Kendrick, Rebecca Harper and her husband Matt, Samantha Adams, Jacob Remboldt and his wife Kayla, Adam Remboldt and Sarah Remboldt. Ernie is also survived by his sister, Karen Louise Bell-Patten of California. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Pamelia Michael and his brother-in-law, Bruce R. Patten.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. Memories of Ernest and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com