Michael Giffen

Michael Giffen 80, passed away peacefully at home with family members on August 26, one day before his and Beverly's 19th Wedding Anniversary. Known to all as honest, patient, trustworthy and kindhearted, Mike was a true gentleman. Loved and admired by everyone that knew him, he will be greatly missed. Mike was born in Arvin, CA, on March 23, 1926 to Ruth Price and Russell Giffen. The second born, Mike had three siblings, Patricia, Carolyn and Price. After graduating from Dos Palos High School in 1944, he joined the Army Air Corps, where he served until his honorable discharge in 1946. He attended the University of California, Berkeley from 1946 to 1948. A longtime Westside farmer, Mike began farming in 1948 in Cantua Creek, CA. He moved his farming operations to Firebaugh, CA, in 1956. While considered extremely hard working by fellow farmers, Mike also had an enviable ability to leave his work at the ranch at the end of the day. Even during the most difficult times, he would say, "it is what it is," or he might ask, "can you do anything about it? If not, don't worry about it." Mike's loyalty and generosity were immeasurable. Likewise, Mike greatly appreciated the integrity and hard work demonstrated daily by his employees. He recognized the huge debt he owed to the people who worked for him and credited them for his success in farming. He would have liked to say "thank you" to them one more time. Mike was an avid and accomplished golfer. He was an active member of both the San Joaquin Country Club and the Sunnyside Country Club where he won the club championship in 1972. Mike also played football in high school and in the Army, and he was a committed supporter of the University of California, Berkeley football program his entire life. GO BEARS! Mike was predeceased by his parents; his daughter Marian; and his sister Patricia. He is survived by his wife Beverly; his three children, Richard Giffen and his wife Gay, Terry Giffen, and Nevil Giffen, and their mother Terry Woods; three grandchildren: Rory Giffen, Russell Giffen and Thayer Giffen; his sister Carolyn Peck; his brother Price Giffen; 17 nieces and nephews; and Beverly's three children and their families. Mike's family would like to thank the community for their sympathy and generosity. They would also like to thank Dr. Steven Chooljian, Phil Bachelor, Miriam Apoyan, and the staff at Saint Agnes for their attentive, nurturing, and expert care. Finally, the family would like to express their eternal love for Michael Giffen, their husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 31, 2006 at Belmont Memorial Park. Remembrances may be sent to Bear Backers for Michael Giffen, c/o California Athletic Development Office, U.C. Berkeley, 195 Walter Haas Jr. Pavillion, Berkeley, CA 94720-4422 or online at calbears.com.