Michael Joseph Riopel

Michael Joseph Riopel Michael Riopel died suddenly July 7 in Kamuela, Hawaii from a stroke. He was 53. Michael was born on October 25, 1954 in San Jose to John and Ardis Riopel. He grew up in San Jose along with his seven brothers. Michael loved music! His spent his life in the music business: playing in bands, repairing guitars and as a music instructor. During the 1980s, Michael toured and performed around the country with the McClain Family Band, including a performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Michael lived for many years in Anchorage, Alaska where he played bass and other instruments in several bands. He also wrote music and helped write several children's books. For the last five years, Michael lived and worked with his brother at Richard's tree farm in Kamuela, Hawaii. Michael loved his children dearly. His daughter, Rebecca Hodges, is attending Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where she lives with her husband Daniel. His son, Roger Smith, lives in Austin, TX. In addition to his children, Michael is survived by his brothers and their wives, Dennis and Ellen in Anaheim, CA, David and Lora in Cupertino, CA, Robert and Cheryl in Penn Valley, CA, Richard and Harriett in Kamuela, Hawaii and Santa Cruz, CA, William and Suwan in Bangkok, Thailand, John and Joyce in Danville, CA, and Philip and Margie in Hollister, CA, along with many cousins, nephews and nieces. Services are planned in Hawaii, California and Alaska. For information, contact Bob Riopel at (530) 432-9274 or riopel@sbc global.net. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or another charity.