Michael Jonathan Reitman

In loving memory of Michael Jonathan Reitman, who passed away on May 8, 2024, at the age of 79 in Santa Cruz, CA. Michael's life was a tapestry woven with threads of passion, adventure, and love. Born on a Washington State Indian reservation and raised in Belmont, CA, Michael's journey from the slopes of Alaska to the mountains of Santa Cruz was a testament to his pioneering spirit and unwavering tenacity.
Utilizing his education from Cal Poly and real-life experience in construction and mechanical engineering, Michael proudly built Reitman Plumbing with his wife Carmel. They worked on iconic Santa Cruz landmarks like the Boardwalk, UCSC, Depot Hill, and Gottschalks (now Target), serving the local community with dedication and expertise for 25 years.
While his hands were skilled in plumbing and the trades, he was deeply passionate about fast cars and faster boats, and loved being on the open water. He drove his own boats in quarter-mile drag races, out on the Monterey Bay, and just for fun on family ski trips. Aside from being with family, speeding along a glassy lake with water misting in his face was his happy place. As a testament to his ingenuity and love for speed, Mike taught himself nautical woodworking to salvage a 1966 wood hydroplane named Wha Hoppen III, which took him over 112 mph in the quarter mile. While on land, he performed a full frame-off restoration on a silver 1949 Chevy Coupe with the license plate "HiiiHo'' that won many awards at car shows.
Always inquisitive and yearning for adventure, he and Carmel traveled around the world as a couple and with friends, yet the engineering and history of Egypt held a special place in his heart.
In his 58 years of marriage, Michael's partnership and love for his wife Carmel was a beacon of strength and devotion. His adoration extended to his son Mark, grandchildren Lee and Georgia, daughter-in-law Jennifer, sisters Helen and Anita, brother-in-law Albert Graham, the Giuliani family and his nephews and nieces who sometimes referred to him as 'MJR Superstar.'
Michael's cowboy spirit, can-do attitude and mentorship will be missed by the many friends and folks he met along the way.
Both a true craftsman and a conversationalist, Michael had the ability to fix almost anything and talk with almost anyone. His legacy of love, determination, and creativity will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear Michael.
Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel