Michael Joe Volker

Born, July 1, 1950, to Anna and Emil Volker in Petaluma, CA.  Late siblings Ron, Larry, and Julie.  Passed away April 9, 2021 in Windsor, CA, where he was living for the past 2 years.  Survived by former spouse Denise Derby of 30 years and children Jason, Katie, and Kristina.  Who he thought of often and cared for deeply.  Mike’s greatest legacy was his 11 grandchildren whom he loved very much.  In later years, his second wife, Dianne Dipinto, who he traveled across the United States with on his Harley Davidson and flipped houses.

Michael served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, after his discharge he started his lifelong career in construction with Rudolph and Sletten.  There he received the nickname “Skippy”.  He taught his son everything he knew about construction.  Jason worked with him on jobs such as George Lucas Ranch, AVE Medtronic and the cell phone tree tower project.  Mike also helped build the Empire College and Hewlett Packard.  In more recent years, he worked for XL Construction, with childhood friend Ralph Allino.

Some of his favorite pastimes were playing golf and riding his Harley.  He loved the freedom he felt while riding and was able to travel many places on his bike.  He attended Sturgis and Hot August Nights.  He loved watching NASCAR races and attending concerts and NFL games.  Mike enjoyed the outdoors and was often vacationing on a beach.  He played golf locally as well as in Hawaii and Mexico.  He taught his children to hunt, fish and camp.

Michael will be missed by all who knew him.  His celebration of life will be held at Doran Beach Regional Park, 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, CA 94923 , on Sunday May 16.  Please arrive by 9am, as the park is first-come, first-served basis and will close when it reaches capacity.  We will be gathering at the first paved day use parking area.  If you do not own a regional park pass there is a $7 entrance fee.  Lunch will be catered by Red Bee BBQ.

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