MICHAEL JOSEPH MENDONCA

In Loving Memory of Michael Joseph Mendonca

May 5, 1953 – March 19, 2025

Michael Joseph Mendonca, born on May 5, 1953, in the territory of Hawaii, passed away after a long battle with the inevitable (also known as life). He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Bonnita Sue, whom he married and put up with for 37 years. Now that’s dedication! He was also preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and Joe Mendonca, who gave him the roots and sense of humor that would carry him through life.

Michael’s early years were a true testament to nerdy excellence. In high school, he was a proud member of the chess club, math club, and rocket club (yes, really—he was that guy!). And let’s not forget, he was first chair in the school band, no doubt leading the brass section with flair and, of course, a bit of swagger. He was also the kind of student who never missed a day of school from middle school all the way through high school. We can only imagine how many perfect attendance certificates he had under his belt!

Michael had a lifelong love for animals, and he was so passionate about it that he earned an Associate of Science degree in pre-med with dreams of becoming a veterinarian. While he never quite pursued that path professionally, his love for animals remained unwavering. Whether it was feeding the wild quail that showed up in his yard or simply enjoying the company of any critter that wandered by, his heart was always open to creatures big and small. Anyone who knew him knew that he would have been the best vet around — or at least the most entertaining one!

Michael worked for what felt like an eternity at US Borax, spending much of his time in the lab (no, not the Breaking Bad kind of lab). He also made quite a name for himself raising hell with the Union. Michael proudly served as a Union steward and sat on many negotiation teams, fighting for the rights of the workers. His efforts were so legendary, they even made a documentary about it! If there was a cause, Michael was right there at the forefront, making sure the little guy didn’t get overlooked.

Michael was also survived by his five siblings: Steve (Therese), Stan, Tom (his favorite—sorry, rest of the family) and his wife Laurie, Sue (James). And now, his sister Connie is stuck with him in the afterlife, no doubt rolling her eyes at his jokes once again.

Michael is survived by three amazing daughters: Loretta Jennings (Ben), Melinda Scott (Eric) {Mindy is his real favorite. Sorry Tom}, and Katherine Notterman (Mark). He was also the proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Samantha, Michael Richard, Tyler-Sue, Michael Clayton, Elizabeth, and Michael Bradley. He loved them almost as much as he loved his afternoon naps.

As a great-grandfather, Michael’s legacy continues with six great-grandchildren: Willow, Izzy, Caleb, Peyton, Lauren, and Charlotte — all of whom will continue the proud family tradition of making him roll his eyes (in the best way possible).

Michael lived life with humor, warmth, and a willingness to offer unsolicited advice, whether you asked for it or not. He was the guy who could make you laugh just when you needed it, and sometimes, even when you didn’t. If there’s one thing we can all take from Michael’s life, it’s that laughter is, indeed, the best medicine (and also, perhaps, a good excuse to not take things too seriously).

A celebration of Michael’s life will take place on April 1st (no really) where we will undoubtedly share funny stories, bad jokes, and maybe even a few of his infamous one-liners. It’s what he would have wanted — along with a with a whiskey sour in hand.