Michael R. Stringer

Michael Raydean Stringer, lovingly known as "Mick," passed away on February 4, 2024, in San Diego, California, at the age of 80. Born on September 10, 1943, in Lawton, Oklahoma, Mick was the middle of three children born to Charles and Juanita Stringer, both of whom preceded him in death along with a younger infant sister, Janice Lee.

His parents would move the family to San Diego when he was a toddler and after graduating from Kearny High School, Mick attended San Diego City College. In 1965, he answered the call to serve in the Army and married his sweetheart, Barbara Ann McGee in the same year. Stationed in Washington, D.C. as a Military Police Officer for two years, Mick and Barbara returned to San Diego after his service concluded where he continued his education at San Diego State University, earning both a bachelor's and master's degree in public administration. They would eventually settle in Alpine, calling it home since 1972.

Mike, as he was known to work colleagues, embarked on a distinguished 30-year career with UC San Diego Health in 1967. Rising through the ranks in hospital administration, in 1984 he became Director of Hospitals and Clinics and Associate Vice Chancellor in Health Sciences. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in developing the region's first Hospital Burn Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Life Flight Helicopter program, and Level 1 Trauma Center; as well as championing the construction of UC San Diego La Jolla Thornton Hospital. His visionary leadership was instrumental in transforming the former County hospital into the premier academic health care system it is today.

Mick was an Aztec Basketball season ticket holder and a lifelong Chargers fan. He enjoyed weekly golf with friends, attending car shows, and tinkering with his vintage cars in the home workshop. He and Barbara spent time traveling Europe, South America and Mexico making wonderful memories. Despite his professional achievements, Mick's greatest joy was his family. He cherished time with Barbara, their children Adria Cavanaugh (Sean) and Nathan Stringer (Amanda), and his beloved grandchildren Finn and Molly Cavanaugh, Hannah Besley, and Hudson Stringer. Annual family vacations to Lake Tahoe were among his most treasured moments. He was our rock, providing guidance, strength, compassion, and courage to all of us when we needed it most. We will miss him forever.

Mick is also survived by his brother Charles Stringer (Dawn), sister Joyce Greer (John), and many nephews, nieces, cousins and dear, life-long friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Catamaran Resort Hotel at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, Fund E4788. Mick's legacy of hard work, vision and dedication will forever inspire those who knew him.