Michael Bull

My grandfather Michael Alan Bull was born on November 18, 1946. A strong and stoic man, he profoundly impacted the lives of many. After 78 years, he passed away peacefully the evening of March 6, 2025, in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by loving family.

Michael was the firstborn child of Billy Q. and Grace L. Bull, in Escondido, California. He graduated with great memories from Escondido High School in 1964, where he excelled in both track and football, earning varsity letters. In 1966, he was drafted into the United States Army and served his country as an infantryman during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968, during which he was awarded a Purple Heart for his courageous and selfless actions, before receiving an honorable discharge, and remaining a proud patriot for life.

Michael earned a bachelor's degree from San Diego State University. He was a dutiful man, always on time, and he dedicated 20 years working for the Valley Center Water District, rising to the position of Operations Manager of the Water Distribution Division. As head of the department, he wrote the latest edition of the operations manual before retiring in 2009. He was also a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and a devout member of the Catholic faith.

After his retirement, Michael moved back up to Oregon with his wife, Carole. There, he devoted his time to his family, home, and health. He enthusiastically umpired his grandkid's baseball games and was a constant presence at their sporting events and award ceremonies. He attended countless grandparents' day or Veterans Day meals at schools through the years. Family was paramount to Michael. He was a self-reliant man, and someone who liked to keep himself busy, growing a garden each year and diligently completing countless projects on his home and property. Even after receiving a cancer diagnosis, he maintained his five-mile walks through town several times a week. Michael's commitment to his health and home was only surpassed by his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his family.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Grace Bull. He is survived by his brother, Bill; his sisters, Lynelle and Mary Ann; his wife, Carole; his sons, Steven, and Michael; his daughters, Regina, and Jenee; his grandchildren, Aleah, Kris, Jon, Zach, Nic, Dominique, Jimmy Ashlee, and Ariel; and his great-grandchildren, Tyree, and George.

Michael was a man of profound generosity, dedicating himself to his country in its time of need and consistently offering support to his family when they needed him. He touched the lives of many, and those who were fortunate enough to know and love him will deeply mourn his passing. As that pain is felt, we should also remember and celebrate the full and amazing life that he lived, and the cherished memories he leaves behind.