Michael John Carey's Obituary
Michael John Carey, a working Bay Area sculptor, painter and musician, died peacefully at home on September 30th in Berkeley, California. His fight with illness did not staunch his spirit — his last four years were some of his most creative and productive. He completed a rich art life with three last groups of works, and made his first four music albums.
Michael’s work was recognized by his fellow artists and by a devoted group of collectors and art professionals. His intention with his work was to celebrate our elemental bond with animals and mankind’s place in the larger natural world. He succeeded. Anyone who saw his work came away with a feeling of joy for the magical beauty of his art.
Born September 15, 1948 in Alhambra, California, Michael grew up in Claremont and La Verne, California. In 1976 he received a BA in Sculpture from California State University, Sacramento and in 1978 an MFA in Sculpture from East Texas State University, Commerce. After moving to West Berkeley, he met his future wife Suzanne in 1981. Marrying in 1983, they shared nearly 34 years together and a home filled with collections and much-loved dogs. Michael worked as an art shipper for 35 years while working as an artist for 39 years.
Michael’s many dear friends remember an honorable and loyal man, with an insatiable love for books, music, and art, who had both a dry and a free-wheeling sense of humor.
Michael’s family remembers a kind and loving brother and uncle who had the Carey ethic of hard work and high standards, who shared their love and luck for fishing—and who, most importantly, shared their devotion to the fortunate Carey dogs.
He was preceded in death by his mother Sara Carey in 2010, his sister Nancy Nelson in 2016, and his father Jack Carey later in 2016.
He is survived by his adoring wife Suzanne Anderson-Carey of Berkeley, CA; by his brothers Wayne Carey of Rancho Cucamonga, CA and Glenn Carey of Murrieta, CA; by his late father’s wife Darlene Carey of Hesperia, CA; by nieces Kristie Karroum and Ashley Young; by nephews Michael Nelson, Brent Nelson, Justin Carey, and Wesley Carey; and by many grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
A memorial service will be held at the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, CA on October 29, at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society or another charity benefitting animals.
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