Obituary of Michael Stanley Walter Andrew Blend

Michael Blend, passed away at home surrounded by his family and the animals he loved on September 18, 2012, at the age of 62. He was born in Fresno and moved to Santa Cruz County as a youth where he has lived since. In 1968, Mike graduated from Watsonville High School. After, high school Mike served in the U.S. Air Force in the early 1970's. Later, during his career, Mike worked in Security for Cabrillo College and for Dominican Hospital and he worked at Salz Tannery, before launching his own landscaping business that he ran for 26 years. Mike loved life, his family and friends. He enjoyed long talks, good books, photography, chess, playing with his grandchildren and his wife's cooking. He found great pleasure in being outside, enjoying nature and walking his dogs. Mike was a quiet gentle man, loved by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth A. Blend, 1913-1988 and Marbelle (Warren) Taylor 1923-1996 and his son, Ronnie A. Blend 1973-2009. He is survived by his lover and wife of 26 years, Trude D. (Johnson) Blend; his daughter and son-in-law, Toni R. and Frank J. Armer; his daughter-in-law, Marcella (Raimondi) Blend; his grandchildren, MaKenzie G. Armer, Madison R.R. Armer, Meredith M. Armer, Andrea R. Blend and Michael A.R. Blend and his sister, Kathy L. Blend. He is also survived by a loving extended family and a multitude of friends. Family, friends and acquaintances are invited to a Celebration of Mike's Life on Saturday, October 20th, 2012 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Oak Picnic Area in Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen St. in Santa Cruz. We encourage everyone to bring old photos, their stories and a potluck dish to share. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice of Santa Cruz County, 940 Disc Dr, Scotts Valley, CA 95066, Dominican Hospital, 1555 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 or to your favority charity. Arrangements are by Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to light a candle or express your condolences to Michael's family.