Michael Ray Moss

Michael "Mike" Ray Moss, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on January 30, 1951, in San Diego, California, Mike entered the world destined for a life shaped by adventure, dedication, and deep devotion to family. He was adopted by a Naval officer and his wife, and his early years were spent moving from place to place... Hawaii, Japan, and many states across the country.

Mike attended Crawford High School before studying mechanical engineering at San Diego State University. After four years of coursework, he chose a different path, one defined by integrity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie, when he joined the United Association of Plumbers, Steamfitters & HVAC/R Local 230. His work as a steamfitter spanned 32 years, and his reputation for being dependable, skilled, and steadfast made him a respected figure within the Union community. Mike retired proudly at age 53.

He shared 22 years of marriage with his first wife, Rose Moss, the mother of his son David Moss (Calli) and stepsons Scott Sheppeard (Kristan) and James Sheppeard (Chasity). Their life together was full of joy, laughter, and shared adventures, especially annual camping trips to the sand dunes and the Colorado River with family and friends. During this time, Mike reconnected with his birth mother, Faye Brown which brought joy to the whole family. Rose passed away in 2003, making Mike a widower at that time.

In time, Mike found love again and married Patricia Perkins, with whom he shared a vibrant and fulfilling life. Upon retiring, Mike and Pat traveled extensively, exploring every corner of the country, from the magnificent Alaska to the colorful landscapes of Mexico. After years on the road, they eventually settled into their favorite space, their home in El Cajon, where Mike continued to thrive in the simple joys of daily life...building, cooking, and fixing just to name a few.

A gifted cook, Mike became the family's unofficial chef, always searching for new recipes and crafting meals that brought everyone together. His dry sense of humor, paired with his unmistakable honesty and generosity, made him someone people gravitated toward. He had an unmatched character, quietly strong yet deeply loyal.

Mike was also a true hands-on craftsman, a jack of all trades. Whether he was building a street car or a classic show car from the frame up, repairing anything that crossed his path, or creating an elaborate cake masterpiece, he approached every project with the same determination and meticulous care. His creativity and skill left lasting imprints on countless lives.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Pat Moss; his son David Moss; his stepsons Scott Sheppeard, James Sheppeard and Jim Perkins; 13 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Rose and his stepson, Robert Perkins (Robbie). His legacy of love, humor, craftsmanship, and generosity lives on in each of them.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.