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Michael Herrera Obituary
Stockton, CA
Michael J. "Miguel" Herrera Jr.
July 1, 1959 - April 2, 2008
Miguel made his transition at the age of 48 in a San Francisco hospital. He lived his entire life in Stockton where he was born. He graduated from Edison High School. He is preceded in death by his Mother and Father, Gloria and Miguel Herrera, Sr. In June of 1978 Miguel married his first and only true love, Maria. They had two sons, Michael III and Albert. As a very young boy, Miguel would work with his father downtown at El Burrito in the Mariani's Shopping Center. In 1977 his father opened Miguel's Restaurant at 7555 Pacific Avenue. In 1990 he turned the business over to his son and daughter-in-law, Miguel and Maria to continue on to date as owner/operator of the restaurant.
Family and friends refer to Miguel as "the best Mexican Cook in Stockton." He realized his dream of expanding the restaurant when he recently opened Miguel's Bar and Banquet Room. Miguel was a true "giver" in every sense of the word. He freely and abundantly gave his love and time to the community. He sponsored several baseball leagues, and donated food for numerous fund raisers. In recent years his greatest efforts were spent on raising funds for Hospice House of San Joaquin. He never said "no" when there was a need he could help fill.
To those who knew and loved him, he will always be remembered as a kind, generous, loyal and compassionate man. It is difficult to say "goodbye" to such a great little guy. He has been described as five foot tall in stature, with a ten foot heart. Miguel was a die-hard 49er fan, a Giant's fan, and passionate about his trips to Reno, where Black Jack was his game. He was a member of the Stockton Optimist Club, the Elk's Lodge, The Moose Lodge and past member of the Stockton Rod & Gun Club. Miguel loved music, loved to dance, and had a desire to be "part of Ralph's band." He cherished time at home with his family, their two Lhasa Apsos, Maxie and Roxi, and The Cats. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. There is some comfort in knowing that Miguel is now spending "Prime Time" with the angels. You can almost hear him saying, "That's what I'm talkin' about."
He is survived by his loving wife of thirty years, Maria. His two sons, Michael III, and Albert. His sisters, Christina Herrera of Monterey, CA. Tita Herrera of Napa, CA and Gloria Ann Magana of Ceres, CA. Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. His invaluable Compadres, Augie and Javier. His faithful, dedicated employees, and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 8, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at DeYoungs Shoreline Chapel, 7676 Shoreline. Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, April 9, 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Presentation, 1515 W. Benjamin Holt Drive. Presider, Msgr. Harmon Skillin. Interment following service at San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery, 719 Harding Way. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Miguel with donations to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton , CA 95204.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Herrera
Roger Werner
May 5, 2008
To the Herrera Family,
Miguel's is my daughter's favorite restaurant and she's practically a regular to the extent that the staff know her by site. Perhaps a year ago Miguel gave her an autographed football. I'm not much of a sports fan by my daughter likes the 49ers and Sacramento Kings. She was wearing a 49ers jacket and ended up with this football. She loved it and still displays it on a shelf in her room. I didn't know Miguel except by sight in his business but what he did for my daughter told me everything I had to know about the man. Miguel will be missed any our condolences to the Herrera family.
Lindsay Beyett
April 24, 2008
hi mike. i'm sorry to hear about your father. i been thinking about you. please give me a call so we can catch up. 415-385-9080 don't be a stranger
Bob Watson
April 24, 2008
I'm very sorry to hear about your loss Mike. If you need someone to talk to I'm here for you buddy.
Tina
April 20, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
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Todd DuQuette
April 16, 2008
To The Herrera Family,
My sincere condolences to all of you. I cry today but still my heart is warmed by memories of this great man. I am proud to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gary & Kristi Korven
April 14, 2008
Maria & boys:
We were so sad to read of Miguel's passing. We know that Miguel is with you as you begin this new chapter in your lives.
Warmest Regards,
Stephanie Ballin
April 9, 2008
Thinking of you and your family. You are all in my prayers.
Bart Bird
April 9, 2008
Maria, Michael & Albert,
I want to express my sorrow for your loss of such a special person as Miguel. I met him when we both were much younger - his dad was a delivery driver for Pre-Peeled and I worked in the plant. As time went on and his dad opened Miguel's we actually say more of each other and Miguel then took over the restaurant from his dad. I had seen him grow up and assume resposibility of the business. His father was sure proud of him and I always felt he expressed the same attitude and commitment to people as his dad. I will miss another generation of "Miguel" but they are both in heaven's kitchen making sure things are right.
Laura Alaniz
April 8, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bill & Curterina Chu
April 8, 2008
To the Herrera Family,
We were surprised to hear that Michael had passed on. It seems like only yesterday that we see him walking along the Oakridge Shopping Center and exchanging greetings with him. Since opening Peking Michael and his father has been an inspiration to my husband, Bill. Our sympathies go out to you all. Michael was a good man and now he is with God watching over his family and friends.
God Bless,
Bill & Curterina Chu
Peking Restaurant
Angela Altamirano
April 8, 2008
May god bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. He will be dearly missed.
April 8, 2008
MARIA,
I CANNOT BELIEVE IM LEAVING A MESSAGE IN A GUEST BOOK FOR MICHAEL. THIS ALL SEEMS SO UNREAL. I WANT SO BADLY FOR HIM TO CALL AND NEED A RIDE OR TO COME THROUGH THE KITCHEN DOOR AT THE RESTAURANT AND CATCH US
STANDING AROUND.NOT MUCH WILL
BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM IN THE
RESTAURANT OR AT FAMILY EVENTS.
YOUR HOPE FAITH AND STRENGTH HAS CARRIED MYSELF AND OTHER FAMILY AND FRIENDS OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS. I KNOW
THAT SAME STRENGTH WILL CARRY
YOU MIKEY AND ALBERT THROUGH THE MONTHS AHEAD BUT JUST KNOW
THAT YOU ARE MORE THAN MY SISTER IN LAW YOUR MY FRIEND AND IM HERE FOR YOU. SANDI
Linda Russell
April 8, 2008
Miguel,
Many will miss you and our hearts are sadden by your passing. To the family, life goes on and his memory we always be with you. Linda and Frank
Nancy & David Galtman
April 8, 2008
Maria and sons, We want to express our deepest sympathy. We visited the restaurant often and enjoyed the visits with Miguel. Always a smile and a joke is how we will remember Mike. May God be with you all during this trying time.
Sincerely,
Nancy and David Galtman
Jon and Donna Rooff
April 8, 2008
Maria and family,
I am sorry for your loss. Michael was a fine man who touched the lives of many. The work he did with Hospice and many other charities helped so many people in our community. I will miss the trips to Reno, seeing him at the restarant, but most of all I will miss his smile.
Claudia Strobel
April 8, 2008
Dear Maria,
The girls at workout will help carry you through this difficult time. Even though Miguel's life was short it seemed very full of friends, family, and good times. I hope all of these happy memories embrace you with the warmth you need now. You are such a sweetie and I am here for you if you need anything. Even if it is just an ear to listen. Big hugs, Claudia
Miguel enjoying July 4th Shasta Lake!
April 8, 2008
Marla Kunkel
April 7, 2008
Miguel was the most generous person and the best boss, he will be missed. We all love him very much. How wonderful this world would be if there were more people like Miguel in it. He would always carry a positive attitude and had a great outlook on life. He wasn't just a boss but a friend and could even be considered family for the people who knew him well. He was a caring man and we will truly miss you miguel!!!!
Sal,Delia and Boys Ordaz
April 7, 2008
Maria,
Our prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. Michael had a heart of gold and a wonderful soul. He is with God.
Paul and Rose Kline
April 7, 2008
Maria and boys,
We are truly saddened by your loss. You can rest assured that he is resting in peace in heaven and looking down on us now. He was a great man with a wonderful soul.
Miguel and Angelica
April 7, 2008
Miguel and Encarnacion
April 7, 2008
Miguel
April 7, 2008
Miguel, Anthony, Me, and Jorge
April 7, 2008
Jorge Altamirano
April 7, 2008
To my Sister, Albert, Michael III, and Michael "Miguel" (Brother-In-Law, friend, and Compadre).
I am truly sorry for your loss. Our love and thoughts are with you and your family. May God bless you and watch over you during these trying times. I am very glad that I had the opportunity to visit you all during the wedding; I am very, very glad I made the time to travel to Stockton. It was great to see you. Every time I visited Stockton, you were always a gracious host. I enjoyed your company, your cooking, your stories, and your companionship. You will truly be missed.
Jorge, Stephanie, Armando, and Angelica
(The North Carolina Altamiranos)
David and Jessica Galtman
April 7, 2008
Maria and family,
Our thoughts and pryers are with you. Mike was a great man will be forever missed. We love you guys and will always remember Mikes smile. Thanks for the great food and good times.
Scott and Family
April 7, 2008
Maria,Albert,Mike
We will miss him. Anything you need, just ask. Bali trip in 4 more years, be ready.
Connie Quinones
April 7, 2008
Dear Maria and boys,
Please accept our deepest sympathies.Miguel was truley a wonderful person with a HUGE heart and we are greatful that we have become good friends with the both of you.Stay strong.our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.Thinking of you and God Bless
Regina
April 7, 2008
Dearest Maria and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am glad I had the chance to know Miguel, he was a awesome person and will be missed by many others.
May God Bless you and your Family.
Aunt Mary Hernandez
April 7, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jan Martin
April 7, 2008
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Jake Sandoval
April 7, 2008
To Maria,
I'm there for you & I'll call you.
To Miguel,
I hope in the future I'm there to celebrate our days together on earth.
Love and Blessings
Amanda Anguiano Sanchez
April 7, 2008
Maria,Albert and Michael I send my condolences from here and am sorry about your loss. Miguel was a sweet man whom I noticed did a lot to go out of his way for other people..Maria you are a strong woman and will provail this tragic loss..
Julie Morales-Barnett
April 7, 2008
Our condolences for your loss on behalf of my family who grew
Up with Michael in the old neighborhood.
Christina and sisters, and John Rafferty
April 7, 2008
Maria, Mike, and Albert,
Im sorry for your loss at this time, and I pray that knowing he is in a better place, and looking over you will keep you conforted! May God be with you in your time of grief!!
Sharon, Boyd and Rubi Cox
April 7, 2008
Maria, Albert, and family. What a truly amazing, sweet, and wonderful man Miguel was. We feel so fortunate to be able to call him a very dear friend. His smile could light up an entire room. Just thinking about his brilliant smile brightens our day. We will never, ever forget him, as he will be in our hearts forever. He was taken too soon from us, and we will always miss him.
Take care,
Linda Philipp
April 7, 2008
Maria:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family...
Always,
Linda
Ronnie Coale
April 7, 2008
Miguel, you were an amazing cook and an even better human being... you will be truly missed! RIP in buddy!
Erwin & Darolyn Perry
April 7, 2008
Maria, Micheal, & Albert, We were shocked and saddened to hear of Miguels passing. We always enjoy the meals and friendship at the restraurant. He will certainly be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Debbie Winchell
April 6, 2008
Maria and family:
So sorry to read about the loss of Miguel. Our prayers are with you. Debbie Wold Winchell and Ken Winchell
Mary Ann & Erick Poier
April 6, 2008
Maria and Boys
There are no words to express how very sorry we are for your loss. Michael was such a good guy and taken too soon. May the wonderful memories of your life together help you when you need that little pick-me-up. Michael is now your Guardian Angel and will always keep you safe from harm.Your in our prayers.
Marina Reyes-Morita
April 6, 2008
Dearest Maria & family: I want to tell you how sorry I am to hear about Michael. Your family is in my heart and prayers. Working at Miguel's was my first job 22 yrs ago, and I will never forget the kindness that Michael and his family showed me. I know that there are no words that can ease your pain now, but know that Michael is in a much better place now that he is in heaven and he is an angel looking over his family and friends.
jIM & BERNICE CHABOLLA
April 6, 2008
SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT MIGUEL.
OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Joe,Jan,Jessica & Jordan Hernandez
April 6, 2008
Maria, Mike jr and Albert, We still can not believe we are here writing in a guest book for cousin Michael. Our thoughts and prayers are with you cousins. We have been remembering all the good times, camping, boating, A's games, parties, and Joe's favorites, hunting and playing pool with cousin Mike. Even tho Mike would run the table most of the time. It is hard to believe we are walking into "MIGUELS" and not going to see cousin Mike sitting there. We all know he is at peace and that is what matters but we will miss him forever. We are here for you cousins. Love always.
Rick and Mary Macias
April 6, 2008
Maria and family,
Please except our deepest
sympathy.
Affectionately,
Rex, Kris, Thomas & Jonathan Davis
April 6, 2008
Miguel,
Thank you for all the wonderful dinners, for the fun David Mendoza and I had playing in the golf tournaments with you, and for the wonderful courtesies you always gave me and my family. We will miss seeing you and we will certainly miss your laugh. You were always turned a bad day into a much better one.
Mark League
April 6, 2008
The girls are missing you!!! They wanted to say I love you cousin Mike. We will see you agin some day. Samantha Jade and Kelsey Lane
Beverly Nathe
April 6, 2008
This is a real shock, my daughter is 48. I was like Mike's sister in Oregon and brought some pictures to the reataurant of Mike. That was 60 years ago in Oregon & I did meet Miguel, he was cooking.
Mark League
April 6, 2008
I am glad that I was able to be apart of you and your families life. I will miss you lots. Thanks for standing up for me in my wedding with your beautiful cousin. The memories over the past seven years are endless and will last a lifetime. Remembr that I will always take care of your cousin. I miss ya pal. Go NINERS!!! Love you!!!!!
Lee and Michelle Bethea
April 6, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Katy & Felix Hash
April 6, 2008
Marie and famely;
Our hart's are with yu'll!
Enjoy the very good meals at Miguels.
Good Bless and think of the good times!
Darrell Philo
April 6, 2008
I carryed you in my arm's as a 3 yr.old.I took you to church with your mom and sisters,I babysat for you as a child,your parent's were my Sophia Godparents,and I played with you at the park across the street from where you were raised,but only the Doves and Angels of God will take you home to rest in peace,with are Lord Jesus Christ.My heart go's out to all the Herrera Family.Mrs,Ardith,Philo
Olivia Hernandez
April 6, 2008
God placed a piece of heaven here on earth and blessed us with his laughter, and eternal memories that will forever grow in our hearts.
Although we weren’t’ ready to see his wings spread, we knew he was ready for his eternal life to begin.
Heaven couldn’t have blessed us more then to know him as a husband, a father an uncle a god father a friend, my God Father (our angel)
Forever his laughter will be heard, forever our hearts will beat with his, and if tears could build a stairway to heaven, we know we’ll be graced in his presence again.
In our heart we couldn’t have asked for more, then to know he once stood by our side.
And as they say; he’s that whisper in the wind, that imaginary friend, that shadow on the ground, and he’ll be until the end, for our hearts will be sure to carry him every step of the way.
Miguel Herrera the third and angel GOD was missing for 48 years is now home watching over with his parents Miguel Herrera the second and his mother Gloria.
My condolence to his wife and kids. My cousins, and God Mother. May his laughter and happiness be seen threw your hearts. He will be forever missed.
Cousin Olivia (Yaya)
Rosie Rodriguez-Gilb
April 6, 2008
I just learned of the news today and my heart goes out to Mike's family. Miguel's was my 1st place of employment and I had the pleasure of working for Miguel and then Michael and Maria. They are OUTSTANDING people and true to the article very generous. I want to say how sorry I am to hear of this and I'm so sorry that I didn't have a chance to see Michael before he passed on. Michael made a difference in this world, not many people will be missed like Mike.
Janis and Robert Sheen
April 6, 2008
Dear Neigbors,
Your loss of Miguel is shared by your many friends who care, and you are all in our thoughts and prayers. God's blessings today and always.
April 6, 2008
My husband and I are truly sorry for your loss. Our family are true and loyal patrons of his restaurant. God Bless.
Butch and Terry Jewart
Chuck Eproson
April 6, 2008
I was very saddened to see that Mike, at only 48, had left us, and my heart is heavy. I bowled in the same league with him for several years. He was well liked by all who knew him and it was always a treat whenever he brought along a huge container of tasty burritos to be shared by his fellow bowlers. I enjoy eating at Miguel's and whenever we came in for a meal, he always brought out a tempting "appetizer" to get our dining experience started. God bless that man and his family.
Stacy Van Hoose
April 6, 2008
For years, Miguel, Maria and the rest of their family have made us part of their family, every time we see them. Our daughter has grown up with "Chips n Salsa" (as she calls the restaurant). Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time of loss and the memories will fill our hearts. Smile, as Miguel smiled, as he touched so many lives with his loving and giving heart! God Bless!
LYNN NORMAN
April 6, 2008
Goodbye. We all love you and will miss you You are "PRIME TIME"
Michael J. Herrera III
April 6, 2008
Dad, I will miss you more than words will ever say. You were always trying to teach me how to become a better cook, and a better man. I can only look up and thank you for everthing you have tought me. You will be missed ALOT DAD, I JUST WISH I HAD THE TIME TO TELL YOU HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU.
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