Michael James Neuman

Born on May 19, 1949, in Klamath Falls, Oregon, Michael lived there until the age of five before moving to Santa Cruz County, California, where he spent most of his life. In 2012, he made his home in Douglasville, Georgia.

A proud Catholic, Michael walked through life with humility, gratitude, and a gentle spirit.

He graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1967 and later earned his associate degrees in arts and sciences from Cabrillo College in 1984. A dedicated outdoorsman, Michael became an Eagle Scout of Troop 89 in Santa Cruz on March 25, 1964 — an achievement that shaped his lifelong love for nature, service, and adventure.

Music was the heartbeat of Michael’s world. He found joy in playing guitar and piano, singing, and sharing the folk songs he loved from Peter, Paul and Mary, Joan Baez, Simon & Garfunkel, and many others. Whether gathered around a campfire or relaxing at home, Michael used music to bring people together.

He worked over 30 years as a Journeyman with UA Local 393 in San Jose, California. His career in plumbing and pipefitting was marked by skill, dedication, and deep pride in a job well done. He retired in 2011 after decades of craftsmanship and camaraderie.

Michael’s love of the outdoors followed him everywhere, he was happiest walking along the beach, exploring mountain trails, camping, and traveling to new places.

He was preceded in death by his father, Oldric James Neuman, and his mother, Margaret Jeanne (Weisenborn) Carpenter.

Michael is survived by his brothers Rick Neuman and Patrick Neuman. From Rick, he is remembered by his son Jason Neuman. From Patrick, by his son Julian Neuman, and by his daughter Nicole Stark.

Michael is also survived by his sister Kathy Hughes, her daughter Carina Keller, and her grandchildren Armand Desgagnes and his wife Ashley, as well as Willow Annet-Land and her husband Rob.

Though he never had children of his own, Michael treasured his goddaughter, Chelsea Harman, who became the light of his life from the day she was born on July 3, 1992. He also shared an unbreakable, 40-plus-year friendship with her mother, Lisa Harman, his dearest and lifelong friend. Their bond brought joy, companionship, and family to Michael throughout his life.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Wellstar Cobb Memorial Hospital and Wellstar Hospice Care at Cobb for the compassion and care they provided during Michael’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Michael’s honor to Save the Children or the National Park Foundation. Michael believed deeply that every child deserved to be protected and valued, and as an avid outdoorsman, he found peace and purpose in the natural world he loved so dearly.