Michael Francis Moran

Michael F. Moran

October 2, 1974 – January 8, 2026

Michael "Mike" Moran was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Francis "Bud" and Mary Jane Moran. In 1977, the family moved to Frankfort, Illinois, where Mike grew up and later attended Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox. During high school, he earned high academic honors and discovered his lifelong love of music.

Mike went on to attend the University of Illinois, where he earned a master's degree in music. His summers were often spent at the family home in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where he and his brother Patrick devoted themselves to slalom water skiing on the lake - and occasionally to sneaking into movies at the Lake Geneva Theatre. Mike also worked as a lifeguard with the Water Safety Patrol on Lake Geneva during those years.

After graduating from college, Mike moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, famously declaring that he would never return to Midwest winters. His passion for music became his life's work. He taught piano in private schools, offered private music lessons, and shared his musical gifts with several local churches. In 2007, Mike was hired as Director of Music at Christ Episcopal Church in Alameda, California, a role he cherished deeply. He loved the church, its clergy, its parishioners, and the Alameda community. Mike also served as Vice President and Music Director for Verismo Opera, where he worked with many gifted artists and took great joy in conducting.

In 2022, Mike married Natalie Figueroa, with the Reverend Stephen McHale officiating at Christ Episcopal Church. In 2023, their son Zachary was born. Mike often said that becoming a father was his greatest achievement and deepest joy.

Mike is survived by his mother Mary Jane (Yalaha, Florida); his father Francis "Bud" (Lake Geneva, Wisconsin); his brother Patrick (Orland Park, Illinois); and by his beloved wife Natalie and son Zachary (Alameda, California).

A funeral service will be held on January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Alameda.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a 529 Education Savings Plan for Zachary Moran by donating through Christ Episcopal Church with "Moran Family" in the memo line. Checks may be sent to 1700 Santa Clara Avenue, Alameda, CA 94501, or donations may be made online at https://cec.breezechms.com/give/online.