Michael Hartwell Hudson

Michael Hudson passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, in the home of his daughter and son-in-law. His life was one defined by courage, devotion, curiosity, and quiet generosity-a life that touched many and left the world better for having known him.

Born on August 20, 1946, in Maryland, Michael was the first child of Mary and Allan Hudson. He grew up in Carmel, California, where his early years were filled with adventure and resilience. As a child, he reportedly saved the life of a sibling while swimming at China Cove in Point Lobos-an early reflection of the bravery and selflessness that would define his life. He spent part of his youth living on the Carmel Ranch, an experience made even more memorable by the presence of a captive mountain lion.

Michael proudly served his country in the United States Navy from August 1963 to December 1969. His service was marked by exceptional courage, earning him a Bronze Star for heroic achievement. A lifelong student of naval history, Michael never lost his connection to the sea or to the stories of service and sacrifice. One of his most cherished recent memories was visiting the historic ship Jeremiah O'Brien during Fleet Week, where he delighted family and friends with vivid stories from his Navy days.

On September 16, 1972, Michael married his first and greatest love, Barbara Hudson. Together, they built a life grounded in devotion, faith, and family. Michael graduated from San José State University in 1973, and he and Barbara went on to raise three children: Jonathan (born 1975), Jeffrey (born 1979), and Katherine (born 1984). Michael was immensely proud of his professional accomplishments, including earning his ISO 9000 certification, and later pursuing his passion for education by earning his teaching credential in 2007, an achievement he proudly renewed again in 2023.

Above all, Michael took deep pride in caring faithfully for those he loved. He devoted himself to his wife Barbara and his beloved mother-in-law, Hazel, with steadfast commitment and tenderness. Barbara's passing in 2017 marked a profound loss, yet Michael continued forward with grace and purpose. In 2018, he began a new chapter in the Santa Cruz Mountains, living just a mile from his daughter and son-in-law, a place that brought him comfort, community, and connection.

Michael was deeply loved and respected by his community, including CT English School, where he served as a substitute teacher, and his cherished church, Christ Child on the Summit. A lifelong student of history, he found great joy in learning about the Santa Cruz Mountains and sharing that knowledge with others.

An accomplished woodworker, Michael expressed his love through craftsmanship. His handmade wooden toys brought joy to many children, and countless family members and friends treasure the coasters, art pieces, and home accessories he created with care and intention. Each piece stands as a lasting symbol of his generosity and creativity. If you have one of his pieces you'd like to share, please send an email to corpiso@aol.com.

Michael is survived by his children and their partners: Jonathan (Holli), Jeffrey (with wife Melissa), and Katherine (with husband Alex); his beloved granddaughter Scarlett; and his siblings Peggy, Martha, Sara, Rhea, Pat, and Peter. He leaves behind a legacy of service, learning, craftsmanship, and unwavering love.

Michael Hudson will be remembered for his quiet strength, his devotion to family, his love of history, and the many lives he enriched through kindness and dedication. His life was truly one worth celebrating.

Michael's Celebration of Life will be held at:
Spangler's Mortuary
799 Castro St., Mountain View, CA
Saturday, January 17, 2026
1:00–4:00 p.m.