Michael Edward Luttrell

1940 - 2025

Michael E. Luttrell (July 28, 1940 - July 21, 2025) passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, just a week shy of his 85th birthday.

Michael moved to Napa in the 1970s. He worked for Mare Island for a time, and later, with his then-partner Judy Selby, opened a beloved health food store called Optimum Foods. Many will remember that store, located in a charming old building near Soscol and Imola, as a community gathering place where lasting friendships were formed.

During that time, Michael began selling wood stoves as a sideline, which eventually led to the creation of RA Energy. From there, he ventured into passive solar remodel work, then progressed into active solar hot water systems, and finally specialized in radiant floor heating. This evolution resulted in the founding of Warm Floors, a company that remains in operation more than 40 years later.

Michael was an intelligent, curious man who read voraciously on a wide range of topics. He found joy and meaning in the outdoors and in hands-on pursuits: scuba diving, backpacking, rock climbing, skiing, traveling the world, learning to fly, and building projects in Mexico were among his many adventures.

He is survived by his wife, Judith A. May; his brother, Larry Luttrell, and Larry's wife, Judy Cuenca, both of Napa; his son, Jon Luttrell, and grandsons, Max and Ben of Carmel; and his uncle and aunt, Dean and Helen Turner (affectionately known as Dr. Auntie Helen) of Pacific Grove, California.

Michael's life was one of thoughtful exploration, spirited creativity, and quiet impact. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.