Michael Merino

Michael Merino was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Michael was born in Los Angeles, California April 14, 1936. He was the son of Rafael and Candelaria Merino. Michael grew up in Los Angeles.

Michael was raised with nine siblings. He had five brothers, Art, Ralph, Ronnie, George and Bob and four sisters, Mary, Becky, Hortance and Gloria. Michael was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young boy, Michael had a number of interests. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Michael was an active child who took part in baseball. In his spare time he liked stamp collecting and coin collecting.

On April 5, 1963 Michael exchanged wedding vows with Rita L. Gray at the American Embassy in Berlin, Germany. Empathic and loyal, Michael was committed to making his new family happy.

Michael worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Michael was blessed with two children, Rita and Michael. Another blessing for Michael was the gift of four grandchildren, Nicole, Melissa, Jacqueline and Julianna and one great granddaughter, Ava Grace.

Fortunately, Michael enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Michael worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was Security Police. He was employed for 28 years as a Chief Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force. Michael always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Michael was an Air Force veteran. He was stationed at the Hahn AFB, Berlin, Germany for two tours and at GAFB California. Michael saw action during the Vietnam War. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of CMSGT. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

Michael enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were stamp collecting and coin collecting. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Michael found pleasure in sports. In high school, Michael played baseball. Recreational sports included golf. Michael was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list was boxing.

Michael was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. Some of his favorites were Heidi, a German Shepherd; Hansi, a Golden Retriever; Alfie, a Mixed Breed; Agnes, a Bassett Hound and Mable, a Bassett Hound. They were best friends for 14 years.

When Michael’s retirement finally arrived in 1982, he was well prepared. Even in retirement, Michael continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Michael was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

Michael passed away on February 11, 2011 at the Linda Care Center, Loma Linda, California. He is survived by his wife, Rita; his daughter, Rita M. Babcock and her husband, Jim; his son, Michael R. Merino and his wife, Gail; his grandchildren, Nicole, Melissa, Jacqueline and Julianna; his great granddaughter, Ava Grace; his brothers, Bob and George and his sisters, Mary and Becky. Services were held Friday, February 18, 2011, at 2:00 PM, at Weaver Mortuary, 1177 Beaumont Ave, Beaumont, California. Michael was laid to rest in Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, California.

Simply stated, Michael was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Michael leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Michael Merino.