Michael Lee Ridenour

Michael L Ridenour, age 61, passed away on Sunday February 16, 2014 at Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna, California. He was born on March 23, 1952 in Scotia, California to Charles and Barbara Ridenour.
He always had a passion for music, and at the age of twelve got his first guitar. He had the natural talent to play just about any instrument he picked up, and it wasn't long before he was playing in bands. This led to many close friendships, which lasted his lifetime.
He graduated from Fortuna High School in 1970 then studied at College of the Redwoods while apprenticing as an electrician. His love of cars, always having some kind of hot rod project he was working on, eventually directed him into opening his own business of auto repair and painting. As with his musical talents, whatever he set his mind to he could accomplish and do well. He spent time as a logger, heavy equipment operator, carpenter, painter, and truck driver to name a few, the latter leading him to buying his own truck. Whether he was making cabinets, knives, stained glass windows or belt buckles, he did it to exacting standards and left behind some beautiful examples of his craftsmanship.
It was his love of friends and family, his laughter, joking and fun loving ways however; that he will be remembered mostly by. He was the type of person who never met a stranger.
He is preceded in death by his parents and Sister Susan Russell; also his dog Rufus, who must have honorary mention. Left to carry his memory is his wife of ten years Sherry, his son Mike Ridenour and his wife Rebecca, his son Stefan, step daughter Tina Burns and her husband Trevor, step daughter Kristi Parcells, sister Karen Dunham and her husband Wayne, seven grandchildren: Tristan, Kaycee, Mariah, Dannon, Klayton, Rylee, and Wyatt, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as many who referred to him honorably as "Uncle Mike."
The family is holding a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 1, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the Rio Dell Fire Hall. A potluck will be provided and anyone is welcomed to bring their favorite dish, or just come with your favorite story about Mike. The family would like to give special thanks to the Rio Dell Police Department and the Rio Dell Fire Department.
Arrangements are under the care of Gobles Fortuna Mortuary.

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