Dr. Carl Michael Gulas, 70, passed away on January 22, 2026, in Palo Alto, California. Born on November 3, 1955, in Hamtramck, Michigan, Carl lived a vibrant life defined by dedication, compassion, and a commitment to healing.
Carl’s educational path began at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Grade School and continued through Osborn High School in Detroit. He earned an associate degree from Macomb Community College and attended Western Michigan University before discovering his passion for chiropractic care. He pursued this calling at Palmer College of Chiropractic West in California, eventually making the Bay Area his home.
As a chiropractor, Carl found fulfillment in promoting wellness. His dedication to service extended beyond healthcare—he also worked for many years as a server at venues throughout the region. Serving at Levi’s Stadium allowed him to combine work with his enthusiasm for the San Francisco 49ers, even while remaining loyal to his Detroit teams.
Before entering chiropractic care, Carl applied his artistic talents in the auto industry illustrating owner’s manuals, a testament to his eye for detail and creative spirit. These qualities shone through in other facets throughout his life.
Carl was a lifelong Catholic whose faith served as a steady foundation. In years past, Carl had a zest for travel and exploration, visiting Europe, Hawaii, Japan, Bali, Chile, Canada, and many U.S. states. He returned to Michigan to celebrate family milestones and maintain close connections.
He practiced Aikido for many years and enjoyed fine wine, great food, and classic rock music. Outdoor activities including downhill skiing, hiking, camping and backpacking created wonderful memories. Carl treasured both his biological family and the chosen family he built in California. Spending time with the children that lived with him was an important part of his daily life.
He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Diana (Richard) Benson, Michael (Charlene) Gulas, Linda (Jim) Matthews, and John (Laura) Gulas; nephew Scott Benson; nieces Holly (Jacob) Van Dam, Kelly (Sean) Turner, Danielle (Kollin) Gulas, Maite Gulas, and Jozefina Gulas; numerous great-nieces and nephews; and dear friends Shizuka, Andres, Kanami, Ayami, and Ryuon.
He was preceded in death by his parents Julia and Carl Gulas; and grandparents Anna and Carl Gulas and Michael and Mary Lubeck.
In accordance with Carl’s wishes, no traditional funeral will be held. Informal celebrations of life are being planned in both California and Michigan.
May Dr. Carl Michael Gulas’s memory continue to inspire all who knew him.
Carl’s educational path began at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Grade School and continued through Osborn High School in Detroit. He earned an associate degree from Macomb Community College and attended Western Michigan University before discovering his passion for chiropractic care. He pursued this calling at Palmer College of Chiropractic West in California, eventually making the Bay Area his home.
As a chiropractor, Carl found fulfillment in promoting wellness. His dedication to service extended beyond healthcare—he also worked for many years as a server at venues throughout the region. Serving at Levi’s Stadium allowed him to combine work with his enthusiasm for the San Francisco 49ers, even while remaining loyal to his Detroit teams.
Before entering chiropractic care, Carl applied his artistic talents in the auto industry illustrating owner’s manuals, a testament to his eye for detail and creative spirit. These qualities shone through in other facets throughout his life.
Carl was a lifelong Catholic whose faith served as a steady foundation. In years past, Carl had a zest for travel and exploration, visiting Europe, Hawaii, Japan, Bali, Chile, Canada, and many U.S. states. He returned to Michigan to celebrate family milestones and maintain close connections.
He practiced Aikido for many years and enjoyed fine wine, great food, and classic rock music. Outdoor activities including downhill skiing, hiking, camping and backpacking created wonderful memories. Carl treasured both his biological family and the chosen family he built in California. Spending time with the children that lived with him was an important part of his daily life.
He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Diana (Richard) Benson, Michael (Charlene) Gulas, Linda (Jim) Matthews, and John (Laura) Gulas; nephew Scott Benson; nieces Holly (Jacob) Van Dam, Kelly (Sean) Turner, Danielle (Kollin) Gulas, Maite Gulas, and Jozefina Gulas; numerous great-nieces and nephews; and dear friends Shizuka, Andres, Kanami, Ayami, and Ryuon.
He was preceded in death by his parents Julia and Carl Gulas; and grandparents Anna and Carl Gulas and Michael and Mary Lubeck.
In accordance with Carl’s wishes, no traditional funeral will be held. Informal celebrations of life are being planned in both California and Michigan.
May Dr. Carl Michael Gulas’s memory continue to inspire all who knew him.
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