Michael Scott Bradshaw

Mike is survived by his dear wife, Virginia (Ginny). They met through a mutual friend in the early 1980s and after dating for two years, Mike proposed asking Ginny if she would “like to grow old” with him. They were married for more than forty years. Mike is also survived by over forty children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, including spouses.

Mike was born in Oklahoma and was proud of it. His great grandfather homesteaded land in Oklahoma late in the 19th century. His parents and many relatives later migrated to California in the 1930s. Later in life, Mike discovered the works of John Steinbeck which seemed to accurately capture the way of life, mannerisms and colloquial vocabulary he heard around him as a boy. He often spoke of his own parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives. This gave his children and grandchildren a sense of belonging within a broader family circle.

An early, formative phase of his life came when Mike enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17, eventually rising to First-Class Petty Officer in a 4-year enlistment. His service in the Navy was the source of many interesting stories like the time he was left temporarily stranded on an iceberg above the Artic Circle. His ship was transporting equipment needed for America's "DEW" line (distant early warning).

Mike was an accomplished businessman and entrepreneur. Early in his career, he worked for NCR in sales and quickly rose in management, eventually holding a Director-level position in the company's headquarters. He and his uncle founded Schreiber, a successful kitchen appliance distribution company in 1973 in Southern California. Mike also received an MBA from Pepperdine University.

In the early 1990s, Mike co-founded 8e6 Technologies which became a leader in email and web security for both home use and for large organizations. He received a US patent for the technology behind his software.

Mike was a public servant (police officer) and served in numerous volunteer church callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including in leadership, and in teaching teen Sunday School and early-morning religion classes (Seminary).

He was also a political organizer, hosting numerous events over the years for business associates where speakers included former Presidents of the United States and other noted dignitaries.

Mike was artistic, once having been offered a job at Disney Studios. His cartoons had a distinctive style, depicting people with large, round, smiling faces, enormous odd-looking shoes and only a few sparse, thin locks of hair on their heads. These became favorites with his kids and grandkids.

He was known for his sense of humor, sometimes playing pranks on his grandkids. Family, friends and colleagues also remember him for his thoughtful notes of appreciation.

Mike will be remembered as being a source of sound, practical parental advice. He coached and supported his children through decisions related to some of life's most important opportunities and challenges. His Saturday mornings were sometimes spent around the house and yard, making simple repairs and enjoying the sun.

Along with Ginny, he attended scores of sporting events, Boy Scout events, graduation ceremonies, birthday parties and religious meetings over the years, in support of his children and grandchildren.

Mike will be greatly missed by family and friends.