Michael Keith Fender

1953 - 2022

BORN

1953

DIED

2022

Michael Fender Obituary

On July 7th Michael's spirit was released from his failing body succumbing to the ravages of A.L.S. He left peacefully in the arms of his longtime partner, Patricia Mendell. He is survived also by his siblings Kerri Denison, Jami Cronin, Traci Marvel, Chris Fender, step children Andrea and Sean Mendell. Mike grew up in Lafayette, attended Acalanes High School and then graduated in business from Cal. He lived out the rest of his life in Orinda while pursuing a long and fruitful career as a musician, singer and band leader. To count Mike's musical accomplishments would take too long. His commanding presence leading his band in performances from Las Vegas, to Reno to Lake Tahoe and the numerous national corporate events are legendary. He had a gift of engaging his audiences during performances making everyone feel their importance. His true love was to care for all of God's creatures no matter how small. The joke was." If a feral cat takes up residence in your shelter, grab a barbecue brush to coax him out. If he doesn't leave, brush him for 20 minutes & let him stay!" Sinatra move over as Fender has arrived. A Celebration of Mike's Life is planned for Sept. 11th.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by East Bay Times from Aug. 4 to Aug. 6, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Fender

Sponsored by East Bay Times.

12 Entries

Allen Fredrick (keyboards/guitar/vocals in band)

August 13, 2025

I had the pleasure of working in Michael's band. He was a skilled guitarist, vocalist, and entertainer. He always made sure that the clients' requests were attended to and made all of us band members feel important and respected. He had a unique format in his band where we all played with each of our backing tracks. No need for a drummer since each track had complete music minus the lead vocals. We would go "round-robin" for each of us to be featured and the sound was so full because we all added our own instruments along with the pre-recorded music. He would point to each next guy to get his track ready to play to keep the show moving along. During set-up, each of us tapped our mixers into his main PA so that each member's track could be played as we all played along to the track. What a great concept and so innovative!
Hadn't heard from him in a couple of years so I thought I would look him up. To my complete disappointment and shock I read his obituary! Rest in peace in God's hands my friend.
Allen Fredrick

Shirley Klein

December 13, 2023

Michael,

We think about you often, especially when we are at
our cabin on the property that you sold to us at
Lake Pillsbury Ranch. The place you loved so much!

We miss your phone call, inquiring about what movie we
might be watching or even who is winning at our card games.

Michael you are so missed!

May the Lord be with you and
rest in peace dear friend!

George & Shirley

Your Fan Club

Planted Trees

Greg Johnson

September 12, 2022

Had no idea Mike had passed. Played music by his side for many years, end of an era. Sympathy and blessings to his family

Cathy McGee

September 11, 2022

Dear Michael, we shared a love for the pups you found and gave me to care for. Roxie and Poochie are the best gift anyone could give to me. We will miss you dearly, Cathy, Roxie and Poochie

Jeffrey Lindsey

September 4, 2022

Chris and Family,

I am sad to hear this news. Michael was special.

Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

Jeffrey Lindsey

Larry Strand

August 20, 2022

Thank you Michael for being a cool brother when I was dating your sister many moons ago. Happy we had the chance to reconnect during your shows at Harrah's Tahoe. You were a genuine kind soul and I'm honored our paths crossed...wishing you a blessed journey going forward

Diana Dockins-McLaughlin

August 15, 2022

I can't believe you are gone but I know you are no longer suffering. You came into my life when I was in 8th grade and from that moment on you remained a huge inspiration and part of my life. I always refer to you as my godfather because you were a father figure for me. You will always remain a huge part of my heart and your memory will live on forever. I have the mixed tape you made me still and I will always be able to play it when I want to hear your voice. Thanks you for showing me so much about life and how to overcome the obstacles that I am faced with. I know you are up there singing your heart out for God and everyone else. Until we meet again...

Adored Beast Team

Planted Trees

Mike Brandi

August 7, 2022

Shared so many memories and some of the best part of my life with Mike. From our racquet ball days in Walnut Creek. Flying to Lake Pilsbury from concord. Buying Soda Creek Resort and building a beer garden where Mike would play for us so often.
Good friend, Good Heart , Good Soul.
Thanks for our memories
Rest In Peace , God Bless
With Love
Mike and Vickie Brandi

Chuck Ray

August 5, 2022

Every time I visited the Fender household I was treated to a solo performance from Mike. I told him during these sessions that he would go far with his talent. I'm glad to see he realized all of his dreams. His absence will be deeply felt.

Susan Huie

August 5, 2022

I'm so sorry to hear this awful news. He was such an amazing talent.

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results