Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael Ayala Obituary

Michael John Ayala"Mike"

On the evening of Friday, June 28th the brightest light in our family dimmed, when Michael John Ayala, passed away unexpectedly in his home. He was the devoted father to Anthony Ayala, Nicole Ayala Duqmaq (Feeras), and Danielle Ayala. This past September, he became "G'pa" to Zane Duqmaq. He was also the caring and fun-loving brother to Darlene Ayala Goldberg and Joe Ayala (Lee).

Mike was predeceased by his parents, Bernice and Ernest "Chuck" Ayala, and his brother Robert.

Mike was born and raised in San Francisco, and was even more proud to say he grew up in Eureka Valley. He attended Most Holy Redeemer, Sacred Heart '72, and National Hispanic University. Mike was a hard worker who was always on the move. He previously worked for PG&E, numerous equipment rental companies (A1 and San Mateo Rentals to name a few), before moving to the swing stage business where he found his niche. At the prime age of forty-five, Mike was one of the founding partners of Elevator LLC. Within a few years Elevator grew to become the number one premier swing stage company on the entire west coast. Mike retired from Elevator in 2014.

After being married at St. Eugene's church, he raised his family in Rohnert Park, before moving back to the city, Millbrae and then settling down for the last 12 years in San Carlos, CA. No matter where he went down the peninsula or in The City, Mike always ran into someone he knew. Mike an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed fishing trips to Cabo, Alaska and Costa Rica with his friends and family. Mike was a "rock" to many people, always making sure everyone else was taken care of. A man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

While Mike worked hard, he lived his life to the fullest. He knew how to throw a good party, and wanted us all to enjoy one last celebration in his memory.

In celebration of his vibrant life, friends and family are invited to attend a celebration in his honor on July 9, 2019. Please contact Nicole at [email protected] for details.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Centro Latino de San Francisco, 1656 15th Street, S.F, CA94103




To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jul. 5 to Jul. 7, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Ayala

Not sure what to say?





Dolores Gallagher

June 29, 2022

My Paul passed away 9/03/21. He loved Mike as a brother. I miss Paul so very much. They are together now. Mike has always been so special to us'

Carmella Leuschen

June 29, 2020

This broke my heart a year ago and it still breaks my heart. Gone too soon. I think of you often Mike. RIP Carmella Leuschen Your Former Sister-in-law. ❤

August 26, 2019

Oh NOOOOO!

GOD BLESS your soul Mike! You changed my life forever and I thank you so much for always having my back, heaven has gained another Angel for sure!

Carmella Leuschen

July 12, 2019

Dear Nicole & Ayala Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of your father's passing. My heart truly aches for all of you. I know that Mike will be missed immensely by his entire family. I will miss you also Mike. Thank You for being my brother-in-law and being there for me and my sons in times of need. I know that Ronald was very saddened to hear of your passing. To the Ayala Family and especially to my Niece Nicole, Niece Danielle and my Nephew Anthony, please know that my heart grieves with you on the loss of your father. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt sympathies.
Carmella Leuschen &
Son, Ronald Leuschen

July 9, 2019

A true one of a kind. Mike and I had many adventures that ran the time span of the loft above his dads garage to the apartment on 30th and Mission (where Murph cooked so many lobster tails for all of us, cases) and beyond. We put on dances, bought antique cars and ran amuck all in the training of being business people later in life. His dad Chuck being our mentor. Always a great smile and heart. Mike you will truly be missed. I'm glad to have had our lunch together last year here in SF. I will see you again my friend.
My condolences to the family. Joey, you were fantastic today.
All the best.
Brian Matza.

July 9, 2019

Deepest condolences to the Ayala Family, and to all of Mike's friends. Mike, was a great friend to my late brother Rick, and it is sad to lose both of them so soon. Know they are both fishing together in Heaven. God Bless, Joe Guglielmi

Cindy Kazarian Helmick

July 9, 2019

My condolences to the Ayala Family. Mike was a very special man and friend. He was one of a kind with a heart of gold. He will always have a special place in my heart and I will forever cherish knowing him. RIP Mike. Heaven just received an Amazing Angel.

Lourdes Macalino

July 8, 2019

To the Ayala family,
Sending our deepest sympathies during this time of sorrow. And may Gods love guide you during this time. Still in shocked,May his soul Rest In Peace.

Lourdes Macalino

July 8, 2019

Condolence to your family,May his soul rest in peace. Still cant believe he is gone.

July 8, 2019

Shocked & saddened to hear of Mike's passing. My thoughts & prayers go out to Darlene, Joe & all of Mike's loved ones.
Ethel Newlin

Michael Bishop

July 8, 2019

Mike you will be missed... Prayers to Darleen and Joey. One of the coolest cats from EUREKA VALLEY.....

DOLORES GALLAGHER

July 8, 2019

Mike has been an inspiration bringing out the best in all of us.

Our heartfelt thanks for the memories we have & will treasure forever

Donna Oliver and family

July 8, 2019

May God bless the Ayala family, each and everyone. Let your hearts heal and never fading memories abound as you lay to rest this wondrous man.

July 8, 2019

Thanks Mike, for all that you gave to Victoria and I.
Howard and Victoria Jewett

Fred Muller

July 7, 2019

My condolences to the Ayala family. May GOD rest your soul my brother

Denise Paulson

July 7, 2019

Mike was brilliant at teaching everyone he came into contact with how to be a friend. His ability to stabilize a situation, story or every day scenario was such a gift. I adored him. We worked at Public Defenders office in late 70's and stayed in touch over the years.
Denise Paulson

Paul Gallagher

July 7, 2019

I will forever remember Mike for the endearing Love & Devotion he had for his Family.
Father,Grandfather,Brother & Son, Family was always #1.
Whether he was going fishing, planing a party, rigging a swing stage or preparing for a board meeting, he was in it 110% & nothing less.
His passion for life was infectious, his sense of humor intoxicating.
All this & so much more, that is what I will remember Mike for!

Mike was my Friend

Peter Fatooh

July 6, 2019

To Mike's Family:

We are just stunned at this sad news. Spoke with Mike briefly at his dad's service and was glad to have seen him. Our sincerest condolences to all of you.

MICHAEL HUGHES

July 6, 2019

I wish i had communicated more with Mike at SH.
But i appreciated our talks when we ran into each other the last couple of years.
Mike Hughes
SH 1972

Showing 1 - 23 of 23 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Ayala's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Ayala

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Ayala's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more