Michael Herrera

1938 - 2018

Michael Lawrence Herrera
May 31, 1938 - June 5, 2018
Michael Lawrence Herrera, 80, of Modesto, CA passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, June 5th, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born in Dawson, New Mexico on May 31, 1938. He was the son of James Herrera and Edith (Jacovich) Herrera and when Michael was two years old his family relocated to Modesto. While in school, Michael was active in sports and was a proud member of the Thomas Downey Knights football team, where he graduated in 1956. He then attended Modesto Junior College before enlisting in the U.S Army.
While on leave he had the good fortune of meeting Gretchen Rose Gales of Elco, Pennsylvania and on Christmas Eve, 1962 he married the love of his life. After being honorably discharged from the Army, Michael and Gretchen made their home in Modesto where they raised two children. Michael continued to be an avid sports enthusiast for his whole life and loved the S.F. Giants and 49ers, but he especially loved Notre Dame football. Some of his favorite memories were attending college games in Palo Alto and Berkeley with friends and family. As a young father Michael spent numerous seasons coaching baseball and mentoring players at Bel Passi where he enjoyed being able to share his love of the game with young people. He was always a proud veteran and was a lifelong supporter of the armed forces.
Michael loved the music of his generation, especially 1950's Doo Wop music and he and Gretchen were frequent attendees of live performances at the Gallo Center for the Arts. His infectious laugh and contagious smile will be deeply missed by his family and friends and he will always be remembered for his positive attitude, friendly nature, and kind heart. Michael is survived by his beautiful wife of 55 years, Gretchen Herrera; his sister Diana Edwards of Modesto, CA; his two children, Michael James Herrera of Chandler, AZ and Shelli Montilla of Modesto, CA; his son-in-law Joseph Scott Montilla, and two grandchildren Emma Montilla and Elisa Montilla, all of Modesto, CA.
There will be a Celebration of Life on July 14th from 1pm-5pm at the Sylvan Club in Modesto. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Optimal Hospice Foundation, 1101 Sylvan Ave., #B-10, Modesto, CA 95350
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