Michael Henry Fickel

Feb. 8, 1945 v Jan. 4, 2026

Michael was 80 years old at the time of his passing at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula following complications from surgeries. He was a resident of both Pacific Grove and San Diego, splitting his time between the two cities he loved.

Michael was an educator and administrator for more than 40 years in both Laguna Beach and Poway Unified School Districts. After retiring from PUSD, he went to work as an adjunct professor for California State University San Marcos.

His professional career always included forming bike clubs for young riders. He was especially proud of the Ride Across America (RAC) club he co-founded, an epic journey that partnered 5th graders and their parent/guardian in a five-day, 230-mile bike ride from the Arizona border to the Pacific Ocean.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 44 years, Kathy; his stepdaughters, Scarlett Riesselman of Martinez and Tricia Bridgewater (Richard) of Independence, MO; niece, Karen Long (Richard) of Winchester; cousins Norma,bTracy and Robin Brainard of Chula Vista; granddaughter, Kelsie Frederick and grandson, Brian Frederick of San Diego and several great-nephews and great-nieces.

Services are planned at a later date in San Diego. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations in his memory to Chautauqua Hall. Donations are being accepted online through the Pacific Grove Heritage Society website, pacificgroveheritage.org/chautauqua-hall-project-2024, or by check.