Michael John Bik

Born in Turlock in 1944, Mike moved to Merced with his family around 1953 when he was 9 years old. Later, he attended El Capitan High School and was in the first graduating class. He remained in Merced until graduating from Merced College and was among the first class to do so there.

Mike worked relentlessly in getting the new high school named El Capitan. As a tribute to his Alma-mater the colors are powder blue, black and a touch of gold, and the mascot is still the gaucho. Mike would dress in the “old gaucho” costume at events to cheer on the students he adored. He remained active with helping students and staff until his passing.

After Merced College, Mike joined the US Army serving at Ft. Evans and Berlin, Germany attaining the rank of SPC 5.

After serving out his enlistment, he along with his wife, and infant daughter moved to Fresno, CA. So that Mike could finish his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Criminology. Mike’s first position was internal inspection at the IRS facility in Fresno. He subsequently moved to San Francisco as Assistant Regional Inspector of the Western division of the United States. In Atlanta, Georgia as Regional Inspector of the Southeastern region of the United States. He was a GM-15 when he retired.

After retirement, Mike and his wife Susan returned to Merced. Mike became involved in helping care for his mother, Gloria Watkins, and Susan’s parents, Joe and Cynthia Brooks.

Mike was an active member of the Historical Society in Merced, and served as President and Vice President of the organization. He also helped the United Women’s Methodist Church with their estate sales. Mike was the author of “Bik’s Picks: Mid-century Merced Revisited.” He was also the recipient of the Heacox Pioneer award.

Mike will be best remembered for being a friend to so many, a loving grandfather to his granddaughter Brooke and loving father to his daughter, Stacey. And adoring and dedicated husband of 57 years to his wife, Susan A. Bik (Brooks), who predeceased him.

Mike is survived by his daughter Stacey Renee Bik, his granddaughter, Brooke Cynthia Metcalf. His sister Vicki Mineni, and brother Karl (Doc) Bik. His brother Jim Bik predeceased him. His nieces and nephews: Jenine (Gary) Maxwell, Lisa Dodge, Michelle Mineni, Cindy Chait, Cody Bik, Jon (Thea) Bik, and many great nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring of 2025.