Michael J. Estep

On Thursday, July 6, 2006 Michael Estep was overcome by his battle with lung cancer. Michael was born October 12, 1946 in Buchanan, West Virginia. Michael was 59 when he died. He lived in California over two decades, starting in Orange County and later moving to the South Bay. Michael held various positions in the computer industry and most recently worked at Northrop Grumman as a software designer. Michael was well loved and appreciated by all those that came to know him.

Michael is survived by his two brothers, David Estep and James Estep, his sister Mary Ann Miller, his nephew Mathew Miller, his niece Genevieve Miller, and his close friends Leila Martinez, Darby Pease, Quinlan Olsson, and Monica Enrique.

Michael was an avid reader. He was reading the last three books in his complete collection of near two hundred beautiful volumes of works exploring the nation's cultural heritage and most significant writings published by The Library of America. He also loved all kinds of music including blues, folk, rock, pop, opera, classical, jazz, and country, and he taught himself to play guitar. Michael especially loved and supported live music in his community.

He had a wonderful sense of humor, was a kind soul, a generous man, and always uplifting and spirited in his relationships. Michael kept you on your toes with dangling conversations. He was independent yet demonstrated loyalty and caring for the people closest to him with his daily deeds.

Michael put a lot of heart and soul and his gift of intellect into every aspect of his life, and each decision and action was deeply personal and delivered with true conviction.

In lieu of flowers we invite you to make a donation to your local library or charity of your choice. There will be two opportunities to honor Michael here in the South Bay. A viewing will be held on Wednesday July 12, 2006 from 5 to 9pm at Rice Mortuary, 5310 Torrance Blvd., Torrance. A gathering of friends and celebration of Michael's life will be held on July 23, 2006 starting at 8pm at Cafe Boogaloo, 123 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach.