Michael James Mckrell

Michael James McKrell, age 66, born in Minneapolis, MN, passed away peacefully on February 24. 2014 after a seventeen year illness handled with grace, stoicism, and constant good humor. A St. Vincent de Paul, Petaluma high school graduate, he joined the Marine Corps, in 1967, and served two tours of duty in Viet Nam as a decorated Sergeant with the Artillery in the 4th Marine Division. He returned to California to complete his BA degree in Corrections from Sacramento State University, and commenced his 25 year career with the California Department of Corrections. He retired with the title of Correctional Counselor III in 1997. After suffering a catastrophic stroke in 1997, he spent the last 17 years fighting constant pain, cognitive delay, paralysis and aphasia, while still waking up each morning glad to be alive and glad to have his extensive music collection, his family, and the fellowship of AA to sustain him. He is survived by his wife of 43 years: Mary Ann (Byrnes) McKrell, brother; Patrick (Betty) McKrell of Rohnert Park, and three sons; Ronald (Jessica) Peterson of Arlington, TX, Sean (Jammie) McKrell of Vacaville, CA and Bryan (Alyssa) McKrell of Sacramento, CA; as well as his six cherished grandchildren (Zachary, Elliot and Owen McKrell, and McKenna, Adeline and Cy Alan McKrell). He was also devoted to his many Byrnes-in-law's, nieces, and nephews, too numerous to name. The family wishes to specifically thank Helen and Joel Trinidad of Silva Care Home for the extraordinary love and care they gave to Michael in the last 7 years of his life, and to the staff of Heartland Hospice for their expert skill and devotion. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebratory Funeral Mass, on Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. at the Cathedral of St. Eugene's (Corner of Montgomery Drive & Farmer's Lane, Santa Rosa, CA, 95405). Private inurnment.