Arnold, CA…In the early hours of Thursday March 22, 2018, Arnold resident Michael “Mike” Padgett, age 71, passed away peacefully in Sonora, California, with loved ones at his side. Mike was born to Wayne Padgett and Dean Byrd in Hayward, California on June 24th 1946. Mike was raised with sister, Stephanie Padgett, and brother Ronny Byrd in Fremont California by his mother Dean Byrd and his stepfather William Byrd. He graduated from Irvington High School in Fremont California.

On September 21st, 1964 at the age of 18 he enlisted in the United States Navy. Mike served our country on the USS Oriskany for four years and was awarded A Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon and Bronze Star, A Vietnam Service Medal and Bronze Star, A Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and a National Defense Service Medal. Mike was honorably discharged from the United States Navy on September 20, 1968.

After his military service was completed Mike went to work as a Machinist. He was employed by Caterpillar Tractor Company for many years where his skills were used to help manufacture heavy equipment.

Mike married his first wife Laurie and had two sons Donovan and Zachary.

Mike met his second wife Tina Marie in the summer of 1981 in Pleasanton, California. They were wed at the Silver Bells Wedding Chapel in Reno, Nevada on August 20, 1981. Together they raised her son Ron Peterson and had two sons of their own, Michael and Matthew. The couple set down roots in the Sierra Foothills in Arnold, California in 1995 where Mike was free to embrace his love for small town living. He enjoyed outdoor activities, mostly fishing and camping. He loved watching sports of all kinds. He especially enjoyed Football, Baseball, Hockey, and Racing. He had a tremendous love for animals throughout his lifetime and had a plethora of pets.

He had a small collection of motorcycles over the years and enjoyed riding them in his spare time. Mike enjoyed music and was often the life of the party. He had a positive attitude and outlook on life til the very end.

Mike is survived by his wife of 36 years, Tina Padgett of Arnold; his sons Donovan Padgett of San Francisco , Zack Padgett and wife Rose of Tracy, Ron Peterson and wife Nikki of Roseville, Michael Padgett of Roseville and Matthew Padgett of Arnold; his grandchildren Vanessa Padgett of Tracy, Zachary Padgett of Tracy and Dallas Peterson of Roseville; his sister Stephanie Padgett of Hughson; his brother Ronny Byrd and wife Alice of Oakdale; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be officiated by Pastor Gordon Johnson at Oak Circle Community Church in Arnold California on Saturday May 19, 2018 at 1:00 pm. All friends and family are welcome to attend.

Mike will be laid to rest at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine California during a private ceremony.