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BORN
1954
DIED
2016
Michael Ardis Obituary
Michael passed and has gone home to be with the Lord on August 21 at the age of 62.
Michael was born in Lubbock, Texas in 1954 to Rudolph and Wanda, and as a child moved to Bakersfield, California, where he would go on to raise his family, work as a registered nurse and find his second home in Valley Baptist Church.
Michael enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing trombone and guitar, scuba-diving and spending time with his family. He was also a regular blood donor, donating more than 17 gallons to Houchin Blood Bank. For 20 years, he was part of the church's orchestra and particularly enjoyed the Jubilation Brass group. Most recently, his grandchildren were the light of his life.
Michael joins his mother, Wanda Nunes, and stepfather, Don Nunes, and his in-laws Maurice and Wanda Rogers.
He leaves behind Linda, his beloved wife of 39 years, and his three daughters, Lisa Williams, Bethany Ardis-Barnhart and Kelly Ardis. He also leaves six grandchildren (Gavin, Ryleigh, Ainsley and Tatum Williams and Aiden and Grace Barnhart) and son-in-law, Jeff Williams.
Michael is also survived by: sister Linda Benton-Rafanan (Ken), brother Dwayne Ardis (Fran), father Rudolph Ardis, stepmother Hazel Ardis, uncle Johnie Bradford (Sue), their extended families and many close family friends.
A memorial service for Michael will be held Friday, Aug. 26 at 11 a.m. at Valley Baptist Church, located at 4800 Fruitvale Ave.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate blood to Houchin if able or donate money to Honor Flight Kern County.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Ardis
Tasha Peck
August 26, 2016
From all of us at Casa Mexico our condolences and prayers are with you and the family! ❤
Wanda Dickey
August 26, 2016
Linda & family,
Sending you all prayers and love. Mike was a wonderful, sweet man. Thankful that you have the assurance of a grand reunion with him in heaven.
Jo Nenahlo
August 26, 2016
I will always remember Mike with a smile. So sad for all of us, but know that we will meet again in heaven.
Jamie Welton
August 25, 2016
I will remember fondly spending time with Mike in Israel. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
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Tina Stemen
August 25, 2016
We always enjoyed Mike's sense of humor in our Life Group class! We know your family is grieving his departure now that he is with the Lord. May God give your family comfort and peace during the days following. Mike is enjoying the streets of gold and pearly white gates and mostly perfect health and the presence of His Saviour, Jesus.
As we all will see him again one day, we can take comfort.
Kevin and Marti Ewing
August 25, 2016
Linda,
We were saddened to hear about Mike's passing but we are comforted this side of heaven to know that he is that side of heaven. As Woodrow Kroll said: "Christians never say 'Goodbye.' Just 'until we meet again'." Mike was a great friend and when we meet Mike again in glory, I hope he still has that mischievous grin.
Linda, we are praying for you, the girls, and all the family. May God give you strength and peace which passes all understanding.
JJ
August 25, 2016
May I offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Michael. I know that losing a loved one is not easy, but our faith in God's promises can help us get through difficult times like this. Please know that God cares and will give you the strength that you need. At 2 Kings 20:5, he says, in part,: "I have heard your prayer. I have seen your tears. I am healing you." I hope this brings you comfort and helps you cope with your great loss.
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