Michael James Brey

Michael James Brey, born March 15, 1956 to James and Florence Brey. He was the second of four brothers; Joseph, Michael, Paul, and Tom.

He had a love for adventure and exploring, especially the ocean. Even as a boy he was fascinated with boats and water, as he would build small boats for the pond near the family brewery, and then send them out and sometimes blow them up. He had a knack for staying out of trouble with things like this even then, as he looked to his Grandma Hilgers to look after him back then.

When he was able to, he got to the ocean and that is where he stayed, or at least close by, for the remainder of his life. He raised his son, Bryan, there where they spent lots of time at Catalina Island and even explored other Channel Islands. Many sharks and fish were caught. They even spent the better part of 10 years living on boats. During this time, he became Captain Mike, or as he liked to refer to himself, Captain “Iron” Mike. He had many ventures that he worked towards, and he did get his 100 Ton Captain’s License, a fact he was very proud of. In 2003 he married Susie and they both had a love of the islands and the ocean as well.

One of his proudest things was becoming “Papa with the Boat” to Theodore, Penelope, and Harrison. Some of their favorite memories of him are making Cinnamon Rolls with rainbow sprinkles and playing with the Lionel Train Set. The also love to give him hugs.

He passed on January 7th, 2026 and is survived by his mom, Florence; brothers, Paul and Tom; son, Bryan & his wife Leah, along with their kids Theodore, Penelope & Harrison; step-daughter, Amy; wife, Susie & grandkids, Richard, Kearin & Mable.