Mr. Michael B. Gradis

Michael B. Gradis, beloved son, father, grandfather, husband, friend, and teacher, died on October 2, 2016, following a long battle with illness. He now rests in peace. Born in New York City, Mike was a graduate of Saratoga High School and earned both his B.A. and Master's degrees at San Jose State University. Mike was an inspirational educator who touched many lives during his 35-year career at J.W. Fair Middle School/Bridges Academy where he taught Woodshop and served as acting principal and summer school principal. He was a mentor to many, particularly special needs students. He loved his family, friends, students, all animals, fishing, and Hot Rods, especially his 1932 Ford Roadster. Although he had a curmudgeonly exterior, those who loved him knew that his soul was gentle, his heart was huge and he was truly a good and ethical man. Mike's sense of humor was legendary. He is deeply missed and survived by his cherished mother, Gloria; his two sons, Chuong and Thuy Pham (Sarah); his step-daughter, Alison Cook; his grandchildren Preston, Michael-London, Leta, Sophia, Elliana, and Florence; his treasured wife, Alexandra Adams Gradis; his first wife and the mother of his sons, Ngau Le; and his dearly loved uncle and aunt, Donald and Maria Mash of Reno, Nevada. The Mendoza Family of San Martin, Michael & Carol Gautier of San Rafael, Rosanne Santangelo & Lyn Leech of Santa Clara, former students Ismael Reynoso and Miguel Flores, and his devoted pups, Stanley & Louie, are among the many who were blessed to call him friend and who will miss him tremendously. Michael's life will be celebrated on Saturday October 29, 10:00 a.m., at Oak Hill Cemetery in the Chapel of the Oaks. Please wear your favorite comfortable clothes, especially Hot Rod, sports, and tropical shirts, as that was Michael's wish. In lieu of flowers Michael's family respectfully requests donations to: Mostly Monkeys Animal Sanctuary at mostlymonkeys.org, P.O. Box 448, Ramona, CA 92065, or to an organization of your choosing.