Michael Ray Hall

Michael Ray Hall, born February 14, 1943, in Bakersfield California, passed away unexpectedly on February 17, 2026. Michael’s parents were Lewis and Lara Hall, both born in Missouri and moved to California in 1930. Michael was the beloved father of Lewis and Brent Hall and is also survived by three grandchildren, Kailee, Zach, and Gianna.

Mike, as he was known by his friends, was a true source of happiness with his great sense of humor and larger than life persona. He had a rare gift of making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. Mike was also known for his big heart and compassion in helping others, especially those in need, including complete strangers, and particularly veterans.

Michael grew up in Shafter, California and graduated from Shafter High School in 1960 and at the age of 17 he joined the United States Army. He excelled in the Army and was quickly recognized for his intelligence and high level of mechanical aptitude. He was assigned to the 33rd Helicopter Transportation Company and was deployed to Vietnam in 1962. He was sent to the Bien Hoa Air Base and was later assigned to the 118th Aviation Company. During his tour of duty in Vietnam he served as a helicopter mechanic but also volunteered to serve as a flight crew member (a “door gunner”) in order to receive flight pay and also due to the fact that he “enjoyed” the excitement). He achieved the rank of SP5 (Specialist 5 / “Sergeant” E5) at the very young age of 19.

When Michael returned from Vietnam he began working in the agriculture aviation industry, then in 1963 he decided to follow his dream of becoming a police officer and enrolled at the College of the Sequoias (COS) taking “Police Science” courses. In 1964, Michael joined the Tulare Police Department and served proudly as a Police Officer there until he was hired by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in 1966.

Michael served as an officer with the CHP in many “Area Offices” and was very proud to be assigned as a field patrol officer his entire 35 years with the CHP (totaling 37 years as a peace officer, all 37 years on patrol). He particularly enjoyed his time as a June Lake resident post officer and also enjoyed his final assignment in the Red Bluff Area until his forced medical retirement in 2001 at the age of 58.

Over his lifetime, Michael enjoyed a vastly wide range of interests including motorcycle riding, motocross racing, car racing, farming, bee keeping, and leather craftsmanship work (to mention just a few). His most recent passion was avidly reading the Holy Bible and studying it in depth. Michael knew one should make himself right with God and that is what he did. He was a righteous man and loved his family and friends dearly.